To the editor:

I know many people feel the foster care system is broken. This letter does not speak to those issues or the reasons children come into foster care. Instead of speaking about the fact that more foster parents are needed, I will outline ways most anyone can open their hearts to these children.

• Support and encourage others who are or will become foster or adoptive parents. It may not be right for you, but you can still help others along their journey.
• Encourage your children to complete service projects or small acts of kindness for children in need. Encourage them to befriend children new to the school or neighborhood.
• Contribute to fundraisers or donation drives (such as back to school or holiday) for local foster care agencies.
• Assemble Welcome Boxes for children entering care.
• Become an advocate or mentor for children in need. Check out your area CASA organization.
• Send a care package to a young adult who has aged out of foster care.
• Businesses can support children in care or in need of adoption. Provide free or discounted services to foster families. Consider hosting the photo gallery from Adoptkskids. Offer space at your building for foster care agency events.

Undertaking any of these efforts will make a difference in the life of a child, but you might be surprised with the difference it makes in you.