more on foster-care...

so, I witnessed the testimony of an Envoy today who took the big step of becoming a foster parent - along with his wife they have cared for at least 18 children so far (10 of which still go to their kids club at the corps to maintain contact).
So, a few days ago I blogged about the 28,000 kids who need homes in Australia...

It's interesting because here (like in Canada) the government overhauled it's system for foster kids from residential faciliaties to foster homes... in one swoop (both in Canada and Aus.) The Salvation Army's care for children was over. In Australia even the history of our care is wrapped in some shame... but it was also filled with some glorious care for kids who the world has given up on...

It only makes sense that if we are serious about stopping cycles of violence and the results of social oppression we need to start with kids.

Now a few years ago in Canada I asked the TYS (territorial youth secretary) how Sunday school stats are going... they were declining (seriously)... so, I wondered if instead of catering to middle class communities - trying to compete for the attention of the kids there... perhaps we should aim our resources and time to the kids that society has discarded... how 'bout a kids program strategy that reaches those kids... sounds like the gospel to me...

Commissioner Joe Noland is a giant in this area... he has championed the cause of the neglected kids in cities for decades and is leading the charge with the program Sonday's Cool

If you haven't checked out the amazing film 'altars in the street' you really ought to... it can convince you to begin! Let's just do something...