Abstract

Foster care has been an integral part of society in various forms. The concept of foster care was notably advanced in 1853 by Charles Loring Brace, a minister and director of the New York Children’s Aid Society [1]. As a minister and director of the New York Children’s Aid Society, Brace recognized the urgent need to address the plight of immigrant, orphaned, and abandoned children who found themselves homeless and destitute on the streets of New York City [1]. As a result, he spearheaded the “free foster home movement” to provide these children with safe and nurturing environments in private homes, marking a crucial turning point in child welfare practices. By establishing a network of volunteer foster families, Brace aimed to alleviate the suffering of vulnerable children and offer them a chance at a brighter future. The early days of foster care were characterized by a grassroots approach, with community members rallying together to support orphaned and abandoned children. Motivated by altruism and compassion, foster families opened their homes and hearts to provide care and stability to those in need. As we understand it today, the concept of foster care has evolved significantly since its inception in the mid-19^th century.

This article addresses the often-overlooked emotional hardships faced by children in foster care and the significant psychological trauma they carry into adulthood. This focus is crucial as it frequently goes unnoticed in research and public discourse [2].

Keywords:Foster care; Trauma; Child welfare; Childhood experiences; Support systems