In a room filled with the soft murmur of dedicated voices, the Utah State Legislature's Social Services Appropriations Subcommittee convened on February 6, 2025, to discuss vital initiatives aimed at supporting foster families across the state. Among the attendees was the First Lady, who passionately shared insights from her four-year journey with the care communities project, a program designed to bolster the support system for foster families.

The First Lady expressed her deep appreciation for the extraordinary foster parents in Utah, highlighting their crucial role in nurturing vulnerable children. "One of the greatest privileges I have had as First Lady is to meet the extraordinary foster parents in this state," she remarked, underscoring the importance of community in fostering resilience among families. Her commitment to this cause is evident through the launch of the "Show Up" initiative, which aims to create a network of support around each foster family.

The care communities program, she explained, is a grassroots effort that seeks to reduce burnout among foster parents and ensure that the needs of each child are met comprehensively. "These grassroots efforts have been tremendously successful, but their impact depends on proper funding and coordination," she noted, emphasizing the need for sustained financial support to expand these initiatives statewide.

The First Lady also highlighted the collaboration with the Sorenson Impact Institute, which has helped validate the effectiveness of the care communities model. "It empowers families," she stated, pointing out that when foster families feel isolated, children often face instability, leading to further trauma. However, with the backing of a care community, along with appropriate training and clinical support, children can find stability, allowing them to grow and heal.

As the meeting progressed, the discussions reflected a shared commitment among committee members to enhance the resources available for foster families, ensuring that every child in Utah has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive environment. The implications of this initiative are profound, promising a brighter future for countless children and families across the state.