The Paukert Family for Foster Together MN

Over the last year, our family has welcomed six children into our home through foster care. We’ve held two sets of siblings who were able to stay together, supported another family through respite care, and for the past eight months, we’ve had the joy of loving a sweet little girl who has become part of our everyday life. This year, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for Foster Together MN, for the volunteers who give so much of themselves, and for every donor whose generosity makes these moments of care and belonging possible.

In Minnesota alone, 11,235 children are in out-of-home care—but there are only 3,955 licensed foster homes to house them. And even worse, 30–50% of foster parents who have discerned and opened their hearts to foster care will close their homes within the first 12 months, often because the journey can feel impossibly heavy when walked alone. In Dakota County—our own community—283 children are currently in care. (Data from MN’s 2022 Out-of-Home Placement Report.)

Foster Together MN steps into that gap. They offer mentorship, community, meetups, and emotional support so no foster family has to navigate this path by themselves.

And Abundant Goods—Foster Together MN’s completely free store—provides diapers, clothes, formula, Christmas gifts, school backpacks, winter gear, and so much more to kids entering care. All of it comes from the generosity of caring companies and people. And if you’ve ever wondered whether Bombas really donates a pair of socks for every one purchased… I can personally confirm I’ve hand-sorted hundreds of pairs headed straight to children in foster care.

This time of year, we’re surrounded by paper angels on trees in malls and stores—beautiful reminders of how we can show up for kids who need us. Foster Together MN shows up every single day, all year long, for these children and the families who love them.

As you think about where to give at the end of this year, I’m asking you to consider Foster Together MN. And if you do not have the financial means at this time, please also consider becoming a volunteer!

Your support tells these children:

You are heard.

You are seen.

You are valued.

You are loved.