MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Tenn. (WTVF) — Montgomery County officially committed to supporting children and families in foster care on Monday, becoming a Foster Friendly® Community — a designation led by nonprofit Tennessee Kids Belong that recognizes communities working to improve the experiences and outcomes of children in foster care.
The designation was celebrated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Rotary Park's Wade Bourne Nature Center.
With the support of Mayor Wes Golden, Montgomery County has launched a countywide initiative to transform the community into a place where kids in foster care are seen, supported and valued.
"Montgomery County is proud to take this step toward becoming a Foster Friendly® Community because our kids are a priority to our entire community and to me," Golden said. "Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and valued, and this initiative brings our entire community together to make that a reality. By partnering with local businesses, faith organizations, and families, we are building a stronger network of care that helps foster families succeed and ensures every child has the opportunity to thrive."
Montgomery County's Foster Friendly® goals include:
- 2 foster parent recruitment events
- 3 Foster Friendly® coalition meetings uniting leaders from all sectors to meet local needs
- 8 Wrap teams meeting the tangible and intangible needs of local foster families
- 12 Foster Friendly® faith communities offering trauma-informed programs and support
- 60 Foster Friendly® businesses providing practical support to area foster families
- 85 foster parents receiving free discounts and resources on the Foster Friendly® App
Tennessee Kids Belong engages businesses, faith communities, nonprofits and local leaders through initiatives like the I Belong Project™ and the Foster Friendly® Program and App to make a difference in the lives of children and families impacted by foster care.
"We are incredibly grateful for Mayor Wes Golden and Montgomery County's decision to embrace the Foster Friendly® vision," Kristin Allender, executive director of Tennessee Kids Belong, said. "Together, we're not just meeting needs — we're creating communities where foster families can truly thrive."
The commitment comes as the need for safe, loving foster homes across Tennessee continues to grow.
As we honor those who have served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice, it is also heartening to see the military right a wrong. Chris Davis brings us the moving story of a Purple Heart ceremony two decades in the making. It's worth a watch.
A heartfelt thanks to all who bravely serve.
- Carrie Sharp
