Our Advocacy

We Fight For Children at the Systemic Level

We recognize that our direct service is a response to challenges built into our current child welfare system. We are committed to pushing for permanent reform in Georgia law that will protect vulnerable children on a more comprehensive and permanent level.

Our current focus is on drafting and passing a Foster Child Bill of Rights (FCBR) in the state of Georgia. 18 states currently have an FCBR for foster children. Georgia currently has a Foster Parent Bill of Rights, but legislation protecting the rights of foster children is sadly lacking.

Our proposal for Georgia's FCBR hinges on five main rights foster children should possess: Protection, People, Paperwork, Privacy, and Preparation. At Carrie's Closet, we call these the 5Ps! Learn more about the 5Ps below.

Our Bill Proposal

If you would like to read the full text of our sample bill, please click the link below! Feedback can be submitted by emailing advocacy@carriesclosetofga.org.

read the bill

The 5Ps

Protection

Foster children should be protected from abuse, neglect, and discrimination.

People

Foster children should have access to their care teams and to safe members of their biological family, and should remain in their original schools and with their medical providers.

Paperwork

Foster children's educational and medical documentation should follow them as quickly and easily as possible.

Privacy

Foster children should be able to communicate privately with their care team and have a safe place to store their possessions.

Preparation

Foster children should be told what is happening to them. Older foster children should have agency over what is happening to them, and should be provided with appropriate life skills training.