September is also Kinship Awareness Month in which we celebrate the relatives or close friends who provide a safe home for children. In Michigan, there are approximately 4,800 children in foster care being raised by kin.

Kinship foster care is a growing program here at Family & Children Services and we are so grateful for the ways these families have stepped up when children needed them most. We provide resources to these families, of course, but Michigan has also made it easy for Kinship families to find and receive support with their Kinship Care Resource Center. (For more information click here: https://bit.ly/4mf5aFz)

If you or someone you know would like more information on Foster Care, visit our website at https://bit.ly/4liX7Hq.

September is Suicide Prevention month. We know that healthy connections, economic support, coping skills, and protective environments go a long way in suicide prevention. Our counseling center is here to help you with these and more. Call 269.344.0202 or email outpatient@fcsource.org for support.

Kalamazoo’s Annual Wellness & Recovery Festival brings people together from all over the county in celebration of Mental Health and Freedom from Addiction.

This event showcases local resources, businesses and organizations that are providing support to the recovery community and an opportunity for real people living in recovery to display their talents and artistry. In addition to the local resource booths, there will be food, fun, games, live music and so much more for the whole family.

Join us this Saturday to celebrate recovery for folks in our community and make sure you swing by the Family & Children Services table to say hi!

As students get back into the classroom, look for warning signs that your student needs more mental health support. If you see these signs or any others of concern, we can help. Call our Counseling Center at 269.344.0202 or email outpatient@fcsource.org.