Representatives at the Safe Children Coalition of Sarasota and Manatee Counties said they are dealing with an epidemic.
"There is a heroin epidemic and because of that we have more children that need to be placed with families," said recruitment specialist Kristen Kandel.
In Manatee County, 585 children were removed from their homes in 2015. There were 164 removed from the home in 2013.
The coalition is holding a town hall on Tuesday evening at the 13th Ave. Dream Center to recruit new foster families.
"People can be foster parents if they are single, if they are married, same gender couples can be foster parents, it doesn't matter," said Kandel.
She also said families receive assistance while they are caring for children.
Foster Parent Requirements:
- 21 and older
- No criminal background
- Willingness to spend time with foster child
Call 941-371-4799 if you are interested in being a foster parent.
