More families needed as foster children numbers grow

As the number of foster children on Guam continues to rise, the number of foster families have practically remained the same. When KUAM News last checked in with Child Protective Services, the number of children was nearly 400. It's now 406.

With only 40 licensed foster homes and a maximum of six children allowed per household, CPS is doing another callout in the hopes of encouraging families to register as foster homes. 

"You just have to have a loving home and we're here to support our foster parents," Social Service Supervisor Mae Fe Muyco said. 

Of the total, 202 children are currently in relative placement while others are placed in group homes such as Sanctuary and Alee Shelter.

Over the last couple of years, they've seen an influx of siblings. The agency has taken in anywhere from six to eight siblings at a time, but Muyco said that another pressing matter is finding homes willing to take in children with disabilities. There are currently five to 10 foster children with medical conditions.

"The reason why children are placed in foster care is because we remove them because there's harm in their home due to childhood due to abuse and neglect, and they're in danger," she said. 

Those applying to be foster parents are subject to a home assessment as well a financial background check.

"We want to ensure that any individuals who apply to become foster parents that it's not there for financial gain," Muyco said. "They're you know they're there to give a loving home to our children who really need that."

Those interested in social work or becoming a foster parent can contact 475-2653.