“

The Departments of Social Services in Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne’s and Talbot counties recently held an event, Party in the Park, at the Multicultural Festival in Easton to thank foster parents for their commitment to the region’s children and to encourage others to consider becoming foster parents on the Mid Shore. Brenda Donald, Secretary of the State’s Department of Human Resources, attended the event, which kicked off the Mid Shore’s celebration of National Foster Care Month and a statewide tour to publicize the foster care program and highlight the urgent need for foster parents. Over 100 foster parents and children attended the event and enjoyed food, games, entertainment, live music, and face-painting. There was a live radio remote where Chamber President Al Silverstein discussed the Talbot Chamber support for businesses to assist employees who are foster parents. The event’s finale included a celebratory cake which was shared with all who attended the Multicultural Festival.

Persons interested in becoming foster parents can contact their local Department of Social Services or call 1-800-5FOSTER. Information sessions for prospective foster/adoptive parents will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2008 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Talbot County Department of Social Services at 301 Bay Street, Unit #5 in Easton. The second meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 18 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Dorchester County Department of Social Services at 627 Race Street in Cambridge.“