- Gov. Spencer Cox announced that Utah joined the national "A Home for Every Child" initiative.
- The Utah Foster Care team, many current or former foster parents, praised the new initiative.
- Director Dan Webster stressed the need for 800 families to support 1,700 kids.
SALT LAKE CITY — Just in time for Foster Care Awareness Month, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox joined federal partners to sign a joint proclamation launching a new initiative called "A Home for Every Child."
The announcement sparked excitement among those who work closest with children in state care, especially the team at Utah Foster Care, where nearly half of the organization's 53 employees are current or former foster parents themselves.
"I've been with Utah Foster Care for 12 years," one staff member said. "Almost three years," said another staff member. Others chimed in with nine, 18, and even more years of service — and in many cases, years of opening their homes to children in need.
Michelle Ostmark has welcomed nearly 100 children into her home over the years. Crystal Ashton said, "We brought a sibling group of four into our home." Heidi Naylor said, "I've fostered 14 children and adopted seven." And for John Thill, the numbers are staggering. "We have adopted 19 children and cared for 67."
This is a team that understands the stakes.
A growing need
Dan Webster, director of operations, sees the numbers every day — and the strain on families who step up.
"This is vitally important work," he said. "We're sitting around 1,700 kids in need, and I would say about 800 foster families."
Webster says the governor's spotlight on foster care is welcome, even if the details of the new initiative are still emerging.
"We are thrilled with the support we're getting and look forward to more conversations about it," he said.
Support beyond fostering
Webster emphasized that not everyone is meant to be a foster parent — but everyone can help.
"One thing the governor talked about in his press conference was this concept of care communities," he explained. These support networks can step in when foster families face challenges, offering meals, childcare, transportation or emotional support.
And challenges, the team said, are inevitable. But so are the rewards.
"I'm so proud of the children that have come through my home," Ostmark said. "They have so much to offer and are such amazing kids," Naylor added. Thill summed it up this way: "It's the hardest, most rewarding job I've ever done — and I would do it again."
How to get involved
For those interested in fostering — or simply supporting foster families — Utah Foster Care offers resources, training, and volunteer opportunities on its website.
