By: David Castrillon, Director of Development, His House Children’s Home
Every child deserves a future filled with hope, healing and opportunity. Yet for children in foster care, the trauma they have endured often leaves deep emotional wounds that require time, patience and professional care to heal. At His House Children’s Home, our mission is to provide a safe, loving environment where children and families can begin to rebuild their lives. This May, during Mental Health Awareness Month and Foster Parent Appreciation Month, we recognize the vital role that emotional well-being and strong family support play in restoring hope.
A Crisis in Mental Health
Mental health challenges among children in foster care are widespread and deeply complex. Many of the children who come to His House have experienced significant trauma, loss and instability. These are factors that, without proper intervention, can impact their emotional development for years to come. Studies show that youth in foster care are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mental health conditions compared to their peers.
At His House, we understand that healing is not only physical, but emotional. Our dedicated team provides comprehensive support services, including access to licensed clinicians, wellness programs and initiatives focused on restoring mental and emotional balance. By prioritizing mental health from the moment a child arrives, we create a foundation for resilience and recovery.
Supporting Families from the Start
Foster parents are crucial partners in the healing journey. At His House, we work to ensure that foster families feel supported from the very beginning of the process and beyond. We offer extensive training, ongoing education, crisis intervention support and access to experienced licensed staff to help foster parents navigate the challenges of trauma-informed care.
By equipping foster families with the tools to build nurturing, stable homes, His House empowers them to make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of the children they welcome.
Promoting Wellness Through Community Initiatives
One of the ways His House promotes mental wellness is by creating spaces that encourage healthy living and emotional connection. Last year, we proudly opened Unity Grounds Park, a state-of-the-art outdoor fitness area made possible through the support of Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Miami Program — Team 2: Lead Miami 2gether. Research shows that physical activity boosts mental health by releasing endorphins and reducing stress, which are key factors in trauma recovery. Unity Grounds Park gives children a safe, welcoming place to play, heal and simply be kids.
Additionally, we are excited about the future development of our Health and Wellness Center, this new facility will further strengthen our ability to meet the emotional and psychological needs of the children, families and staff we serve.
Amplifying Voices Through Mission Moment Mondays
Healing is powered by connection. This year, we launched Mission Moment Mondays, a podcast series I host, where we spotlight the inspiring stories and people behind His House. Through conversations with staff, supporters and advocates, we aim to build awareness about the realities our children face and highlight the transformative power of hope and community
How You Can Support Mental Health and Foster Families
Every member of the community has a role to play in supporting mental wellness and strengthening foster families. Here’s how you can make an impact:
• Participate in events like our Derby Day Fundraiser on May 17 at Gulfstream Park, where your donation directly supports mental health services for children.
• Advocate for trauma-informed care and support policies that strengthen foster care systems.
• Volunteer! Whether offering time, talent, or mentorship, volunteers play a critical role in providing stability and joy for children in care.
• Share resources and conversations about mental health and foster care within your networks.
• Consider becoming a foster parent, by learning of all the wonderful changes it can bring into your life and your family.
Beyond May: A Lifelong Commitment
Recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month and Foster Parent Appreciation Month is just the beginning. At His House, we believe that supporting mental wellness and strengthening families must be a year-round commitment. Together, through compassion, advocacy and action, we can nurture hope and build a brighter future for every child.
For more information on how to support His House Children’s Home,
visit https://www.hhch.org.
