Foster families gathered Saturday at Element Church in Gainesville for a training session led by nationally recognized foster care expert Dr. John DeGarmo.
The event brought together local foster parents for conversation on the emotional toll of caregiving, specifically secondary traumatic stress, compassion fatigue, and how to build stronger support systems for foster families.
“The weight of a child’s trauma can deeply affect caregivers, creating a heavy emotional toll on them,” said Dr. DeGarmo, founder and director of the Foster Care Institute. “We want to make sure that the foster families here in Gainesville have the necessary guidance and resources to succeed.
State Senators Drew Echols (R-Hall County) attended the event to show support for foster children and families. Echols spoke about the importance of strengthening resources for foster parents and making sure children in care have the stability and support they need to succeed.
“Children in foster care heavily rely on safety and security for their well-being,” he said. “When foster parents have the right training and know where to turn for support, they’re better equipped to give children the care and stability they need to thrive.”
Dr. DeGarmo also spoke on the topic of parenting troubled teens, offering advice and strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in foster youth, while sharing tools for strengthening families and healing at home.
“The stress and fatigue of parenting teens can be immense, and challenging behaviors are to be expected, especially when they carry the unfortunate burden of past trauma,” Dr. DeGarmo said. “But when foster parents are given the proper guidance, they can connect with their child, allowing them to excel.”
Since 2014, Amerigroup Georgia has coordinated healthcare services for children in foster care through the Georgia Families 360° program, working with about 32,000 young people across the state. The program provides specialized support for foster youth, children receiving adoption assistance, and some involved in the juvenile justice system.
“Being able to meet a child where they are is essential in their development,” added Sen. Echols. “With that level of support, children in foster care can truly find stability.”
Foster parents seeking additional resources, updates on healthcare changes, or information on joining local support networks are encouraged to contact their care coordinators or local advocacy organizations.