Press Release: Local Supporters Help Families Connect
Kelley Mast
Local Supporters Help Families Connect
KEARNEY, Neb— Three local fundraising groups supported efforts contributing to the wellbeing of Nebraska families this past year. Kearney Area Community Foundation, Baldwin Foundation and 100 Women Who Care contributed over $7500 toward a 2011 Toyota Sienna for Compass. The seven-passenger van makes it possible for families who are separated due to involvement with the Department of Health and Human Services to have visits together.
Transportation is a consistent barrier for families who are in poverty or facing a crisis. The minivan will make it possible for visitation specialists to pick up and transport children to see their biological parents when they are in foster care. The minivan will also be used to help transport children and their belongings when they move back home or to a new placement. Children in large sibling groups are often separated and moved away from their home town to a foster home that has availability. The minivan makes it possible for family members to see one another.
As of May 31, 2021, there were 115 children in foster care in Buffalo county according to the Foster Care Review Office. Of those, about 25 are placed in Compass homes. Compass is based in Kearney and serves 23 counties in central and southwestern Nebraska.
Compass exists to help children and families navigate life by guiding, building and restoring families. If you are interested in learning more about Compass or becoming a foster parent contact Kelley Mast, Director of Engagement and Promotions at Kelley@COMPASSnebraska.org or 308-237-4085.
Written by Savannah Lyon, Compass Foster and Adoptive Parent
