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Section 4
While we are grateful for foster parents all year long, May gives us a special opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary impact they make in the lives of children and families. Foster parents open their hearts and homes to offer safety, comfort, and stability to children experiencing some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Their dedication extends far beyond providing basic needs—they offer encouragement, guidance, and a sense of belonging when it’s needed most. This month, we honor their resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to ensuring every child has the chance to grow, heal, and thrive in a nurturing environment.
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Section 5
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Family Focused Treatment Association (FFTA) is hosting their Annual Conference July 7-10, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois.
For four decades, the FFTA Annual Conference has brought leaders, practitioners, and partners together to leverage shared knowledge and showcase proven solutions that advance the well-being of children, families, and communities. Dynamic workshops, presentations, and networking experiences foster collaboration and innovation while equipping individuals and organizations with the tools to strengthen their impact.
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Section 6
As the summer months approach, the team is excited to share that the new Foster Parent Portal (official name coming soon!) remains on track for release this summer. User Acceptance Testing was completed on April 20, and the team is now reviewing and organizing all the valuable feedback provided by testers. This input is helping ensure the portal is as user‑friendly, helpful, and effective as possible for all who will use it.
Attached flyers offer more information about what to expect, answers to frequently asked questions, and a demo video that walks viewers through how the portal will work. The team is eagerly anticipating the official launch and hopes everyone is looking forward to it as well.
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Section 8
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It's time to vote for your favorite name for the Foster Parent Portal! Utilizing the link below, please make your selections based on your most favorite name to your least favorite name. Voting has started and will end on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.
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Section 9
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As a follow up to Child Abuse Awareness Month, below is more information regarding being a mandated reporter in Missouri. You can also complete the mandated reporter training and receive credit toward your training requirements!
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Section 11
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Join Coyote Hill Foster Care Ministries in Columbia for a two-day event packed with inspiring speakers and hands-on workshops. Learn practical strategies for trauma-informed care, sensory needs, and more!
This conference is perfect for foster parents, caregivers, teachers, pastors, social workers, and anyone working with children who have experienced trauma. Professional development and training hours are available for foster parents and professionals.
Tickets: $50
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable tools and encouragement to better serve vulnerable children.
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Section 12
Show Me Healthy Kids (SMHK) understands that transportation can be a barrier for children and families accessing essential care. To support members, SMHK offers a transportation benefit through MTM Transportation for eligible medical appointments, including primary care visits, therapy, lab work, and other health-related services. Transportation may also be used for approved childcare-related appointments, community resources, day treatment programs, and specialist visits. When appropriate, rides may include multiple stops, such as picking up a child from school or stopping at a pharmacy.
Scheduling Transportation
Most trips should be scheduled at least three business days in advance. Same-day rides may be available for primary care visits, OB care for pregnant members, behavioral health follow-up visits after inpatient stays, and certain specialty or dental visits. Availability may vary by location and eligibility.
For SMHK members, transportation may also be available for biological parents attending family visits or approved child welfare–related appointments when covered under the benefit.
How to Access Transportation
- MTM Transportation (24/7): 1-866-455-2097
- Online scheduling: mtm.mtmlink.net
- SMHK Care Management: 1-877-236-1020, ext. 6080448 (TTY 711)
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Section 13
"You get to be a lifelong part of their family."
In this episode, Shasta, Jessica and Ashton spoke with Jared Baker, a current foster parent in Missouri. Jared and his wife are ambassadors, advocates, and trainers for future foster parents and are passionate about the cause.
If you know someone considering fostering, this conversation will leave them inspired and informed. Please share it with them and help them get started on their foster parenting journey on our website.
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Section 14
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Foster parents serve as essential partners in the child welfare system and family support teams. It is important for you to understand your rights when providing for foster children.
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Section 18
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Here are some reminders of summer activities/events to look for in your area:
- Foster Parent Appreciation Events
- Summer School
- Summer Camps
- Church Camps
- Sport Leagues
- Vacation Bible School
- Swimming Lessons
- County and State Fairs
- Local Public Library Events
- Local Park Events
- Free or Price Reduced Movie Showings
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Section 19
Family Resource Centers
Family Resource Centers are not-for-profit agencies that work with CD to provide support, services, and resources to meet the unique needs of foster, adoptive, relative, and guardianship children and their families.
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Foster Parent Identification Cards
All Foster Parents should have a Foster Parent ID card. This is provided to you after you are licensed. If you do not have an ID card, please email FosterCare@dss.mo.gov to start your application.
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Section 23
CD Wants to Hear from You!
If there is information you would like covered in future Foster Parent Connections Newsletters, please email Abigail.J.Smith@dss.mo.gov.
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