Orleans County celebrates National Foster Care Month

Photo by Tom Rivers: Orleans County Legislator Fred Miller presents a proclamation declaring May as National Foster Care Month. He presents the proclamation to Teresa Elam-Zwifka, director of Family & Children Services for the county Department of Social Services.

Press Release, Orleans County Legislature

ALBION – May is National Foster Care Month, a time to acknowledge the many children in foster care and honor the families that open their homes and hearts to a child in need.

The Orleans County Department of Social Services (DSS) honored the many foster families within our community at their annual Foster Care appreciation dinner that was held on Wednesday at Dubby’s Tailgate in Albion.

Kristina McAfee was honored at the Foster Care Dinner as Foster Parent of the Year. Cyndi Stumer, Deputy Commissioner of DSS said, “Kristina has provided a safe haven to Orleans County youth on a continuum basis.  Her dedication and willingness to serve, without judgement, makes her a worthy recipient of this award”.

The event was coordinated by Alaina Fleming, Orleans County Foster Care Homefinder Caseworker.

“Alaina has been hard at work ensuring our foster parents are supported and welcomes the opportunity to assist new families interested in providing foster care assistance,” said Stumer.  For those interested in becoming a foster parent please contact Alaina at 585-589-3126 or email fostercare@orleanscountyny.gov for more information.

Provided photo: County Legislator John Fitzak is pictured with, from left: Kristina McAfee, Foster Parent of the Year; Teresa Elam-Zwifka, director of Family & Children Services for DSS; and Lianna Sheffer, Foster Care & Preventive Supervisor, DSS.