A Springfield fundraiser is helping put some extra support behind children in Missouri’s foster care system.
What We Know: KVC Missouri held its Handbags of Hope event, raising money for mental health services and other programs for foster children and families.
What It Means: More than 12,600 children are currently in Missouri’s foster care system, according to the state Department of Social Services. More than half are expected to need some form of mental health support.
KVC in Springfield provides mental health services, foster family support and therapeutic schooling for children who may need a more specialized learning environment.
Handbags of Hope chair Kelsea Suarez says the money raised will help families get through difficult situations while also supporting children’s mental and physical needs.
And KVC isn’t the only nonprofit helping foster children in Missouri. FosterAdopt Connect provides support and resources for foster and adoptive families, while CASA works with trained volunteers who advocate for abused and neglected children in the court system.
All three organizations accept donations and volunteers throughout the year.
(Photo provided by KVC Missouri Facebook Page)