Flatbreads and Friends of Foster Children
Posted by briank | Charities/Sponsorships, Naples, Shopping Centers, SWFL News, Village on Venetian Bay | Posted on December 22nd, 2010
The Friends of Foster Children (FCC) of Southwest Florida are teaming with M Waterfront Grille at the Village on Venetian Bay to benefit foster care children. On Saturdays, January 8, 15, 22 and 29, proceeds from delicious flatbreads that are sold will benefit the Friends of Foster Children.
The kids are joining in to show their culinary skills and will be preparing flatbreads outside on the veranda. Chefs will also be preparing the breads inside. Jackie Sereno, wife of Chris Sereno, co-owner of M Waterfront Grille, is a board member for The Friends of Foster Children and the inspiration behind this fund-raiser.
“I was so inspired when I met the foster children and learned that there are 500 children in the foster care system in Collier County,” said Mrs. Sereno. “We hope to have a fun event, which will raise awareness of this great need in our community and some much needed revenues.”
The state only provides the very basic of necessities, such as room and board for children. Friends of Foster Children provide what the state does not, including enrichment activities (football, gymnastics and music lesson fees), clothing, birthday gifts and tutoring.
The average length of stay in foster care is 33 months and 18% of the children are in care for five years or longer. The FCC believes education is the key to breaking the cycle of abuse and poverty in families and has implemented The Education Train tutoring program to address the individual academic needs of children in the foster care system. Many of these children are falling behind in school. These academic delays are often a result of the trauma of abuse and/or neglect, frequent placement changes, and switching schools often causing turmoil and stress. Highly trained tutors work one-on-one with the student. Tutoring is conducted at the student’s home, with a caregiver present, or in another public facility where adults are present.
The Foster Care Council is in need of volunteers that are interested in the Children’s Needs Committee, fundraising, grant writing and/or serving on the Board of Directors.
Please, call the Foster Care Council with any questions at (239) 262-1808 and
visit www.fostercarecouncil.org.