The Foster Haven/Foster Care Closet

We are guided by 3 core values that focus on meeting the immediate needs of children in crisis as they enter into the foster care system and continued support through their foster care journey.

  • We treat people with dignity
    • We use words that build
    • Every person has value and we serve with excellence
    • We don't pity our clients
    • We believe value is NOT earned or based on situation, appearance, behavior, ability or talent
  • We know our stuff
    • We never send someone away with the answer, "I'm sorry we can't help"
    • We work to build connections and resources within our communities for our families
    • We find a way to solve the problem in front of us
    • We stay focused on what we CAN do and don't get distracted by what we CAN'T do
  • We are a team
    • We have open and honest communication
    • Everyone's role matters, so play it!
    • We celebrate wins and we celebrate each other
    • We do what it takes to move the team forward, even if it means we step outside of our roles
    • We are proactive in seeking solutions and presenting ideas

Services

 

Foster Care Closet

Foster care is a journey, not a destination. We are here to help support our children the entire foster care journey.

  • We continue to provide up to 5 outfits during each season for as long as the child remains in foster care
  • We provide a quiet environment that is not open to the public to help accomodate any special needs for our child or for their caregiver
  • Our foster parents schedule a time to shop so that we can offer all our focus on meeting the needs of the child
  • We provide additional support resources to families navigating the road of foster care
 

The Foster Haven

We don't believe foster care should start in a cubicle!
  • We are available 24/7 for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to bring a child who must enter into the foster care system.
  • We have trained staff to support children in those first hours of their foster care journey
  • Our environment allows case managers to visually see the child the entire time but protect the child from overhearing difficult conversations
  • A youth will transition into foster care with a full tummy and 5 NEW outfits of clothing

A Vision Born From Experience

From our founder, Leigh Esau, "I am a product of the foster care system and my husband and I fostered over 20 children in our 13 years as foster parents. Through my experience I became painfully aware how very little has been done to focus on those first hours of a child entering into foster care. Because of my life experience, I am uniquely qualified to share my expertise in helping children transition into foster care. This includes providing a safe Haven, a meal and new clothes - simple things that speak dignity into the lives of children in the midst of trauma."

 

foster care boy nervous about the transition into foster care