After COVID dramatically altered everything in early 2020, no one quite knew what to expect for the school year beginning in Fall 2020. What the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation did know, was that remote learning would disproportionately affect children in foster care, particularly those living in group homes (nonprofit and for-profit congregate care settings for children in foster care) where technology was severely limited.
Upping the Game
Thanks to a grant from businesses and individuals, and led by board members John Keane and Debbie Hall, AFFCF created a program to enhance the technology made available to children living in group homes. Ten homes applied for the group home technology project, and each home received three to five desktop or laptop computers, a color printer, technical service to set up the computers and new furniture. And additional three nonprofit organizations providing housing and services to youth transitioning out of foster care were added in 2021.
Having access to updated technology is already making a positive impact. The group homes report that children can do their homework regularly, complete reports and print necessary documents. They also mentioned the improved morale among the children, who now have the same resources as other kids at their schools.
Making a Difference
As the needs of children and youth in foster care evolve, the Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation evolves to meet their needs. You can play a vital role simply by making a donation to AFFCF. It’s a win-win! You win with a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state taxes. Kids in foster care win by having access to the same resources as their peers. And if you donate before April 15, 2022, you can count it toward your 2021 taxes.