FEATURE

Contact: Joshua Wieland

Phone: 618-407-5454
Email: joshwielan@siue.edu

Target audience: foster and adoptive parents, prospective foster and adoptive parents, general
public
Target Publication: Edwardsville Intelligencer
Peer Editor: Ryan Roentz

Spotlighting Restore Network during National Adoption Month

November is National Adoption Awareness Month

FOSTERBURG, Ill. (Nov. 20, 2023)—November is National Adoption Awareness Month.

Soon, most of us will sit down to a nice meal with family, but this awareness distinction reminds
us that for some children in the state and around the country, will not be with their biological
families during the holidays. That is where the Restore Network comes in. The Restore
Network is a nonprofit organization that supports foster and adoptive parents so they can take
care of children without families, that for whatever reason, are unable to take care of them. They
are then able to give them that warm, home-cooked meal and a nice, safe home to celebrate in.
There are many ways one can help with this cause of protecting these children thru this
organization.
“To be honest, I’m not sure where we would be today if it wasn’t for The Restore Network and
all the resources they’ve provided us,” said Chrissy, a Restore Network Foster Mom. Restore
prepares and supports those who are ready to take the journey of foster and adoption care.
Restore hosts a no judgement workshop where one can learn all there is to know about becoming
a loving home for a young child. If you choose to move forward, licensed practitioners, guide
you through classes that will equip and inform you of all you need to know to begin your
journey.
-more-

“I knew I couldn’t foster but I could volunteer…To love on these kids and the families has been
such a joy…The Restore Network is a ministry that declares the glory and the wonder of the
Lord to all people. I am grateful to be a witness,” said Julie.
If you feel fostering or adopting are not right for you and your family, there are many ways to
give back in the form of volunteering. Making and delivering meals when parents get a
placement, helping at Restore events, being apart of prayer warrior teams, and prepping and
giving out supplies to equip foster and adoptive children.
“There is a need, and this trusted organization is making a difference. The Restore Network is
Christ centered and was created to help the church respond” -anonymous.
If giving monetarily is better for you, donations are always accepted to support the ongoing
mission of the network, “Changing the culture of foster care.” Restore has two major fundraising
events during the year, their annual golf tournament, and their annual banquet. They also need
money and donations of clothing, baby supplies, toys for their annual Christmas and gift party,
and other handouts throughout the year to make the children feel special. One time and
incremental donations are also welcome as well.
“20,000…children are in foster care in the state of Illinois. 475…more will enter the system
this month due to abuse or neglect. 39% will change homes 4 or more times while in care.”
The Restore Network executive director is Katie Myette, she can be reached at
kmyette@therestorenetwork.org and 618-258-7244 x703. More information is found at the
organizations’s website, http://therestorenetwork.org.

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