Our Programs
We will do everything in our power to help children!
Friends of Children offers innovative programs that serve children in, and aging out of, foster care. Our programs support basic needs, while also looking holistically at the needs of every young person.
From court advocacy for children, to mentoring, from educational advocacy to opportunities for artistic expression, we provide many opportunities that serve children in the Pioneer Valley.
Court Appointed Special Advocacy (CASA) Program
CASA, our Court Appointed Special Advocates program, is a shining example of how ordinary individuals can have an extraordinary impact and bring hope to children in our community. This program provides a voice for the best interests of children involved in the hundreds of abuse, neglect, and other challenging cases in Franklin and Hampshire counties each year.
FOCUS: Foster Futures Mentorship Program
FOCUS is a community-based program that connects transition aged youth to resources and community members who help young people succeed and be independent. This program offers mentorships as an innovative solution to the lack of connection felt by young people aging out of foster care.
Foster Dignity: “Meeting Your Needs” Program
The Foster Dignity program partners with individuals and organizations in our community to provide essentials for children in and aged-out of the foster care system. We provide for basic needs, such as clothing, backpacks, personal care items, and comfort items like stuffed animals. We also work to level out the playing field for young people and improve upon their opportunities for success. We have helped with athletic fees and equipment, apartment essentials for young people who have aged out of foster care, and money for school trips.
Seeing Our Voices: Arts & Media Program
Seeing Our Voices is a way for young people to have their voices heard. By sharing your experiences, people in the community can see that being in foster care is a circumstance and not a definition of a person. We invite young people, 16 and older to share their experiences in foster care through artistic expression.