Foster Care, Independence Day, and the True Meaning of Freedom
On July 4th, 2025, Americans will gather and celebrate our nation’s freedom and independence. Across the country, people will gather for fireworks, music, parades, and way too many hot dogs.
But not everyone is celebrating the same kind of freedom.
Not all children are experiencing freedom the way we imagine it.
Because for many kids in foster care, freedom isn’t about fireworks or cookouts.
It’s about the freedom to feel safe, the freedom to be a kid, and the freedom to be surrounded by people who love you.
It’s the kind of freedom they’re still waiting to experience.
For Children in Foster Care, “Freedom” Looks Different
Right now, thousands of children across the U.S. – and right here in South Carolina – are living in the foster care system.
Many have been separated from siblings. Others are sleeping in offices or shelters because no licensed foster family is available. Many families feel unprepared or overwhelmed by the idea of fostering, leaving these children without placement.
How can these children think about freedom?
When their time is spent:
- Wondering where they’ll wake up next week
- Longing for a family they can count on
- Waiting for someone to step up and say “yes” to fostering
What does freedom mean for a child who has no one to call when something good (or hard) happens?
When was the last time you went to a 4th of July party alone?
Never! We can’t celebrate life without a person or community.
Freedom is the same. True freedom isn’t doing life alone.
Freedom is experienced with family or friends.
For children in foster care, supportive foster parents can make all the difference.
Foster Care in South Carolina Is About More Than a Temporary Home
When you become a foster parent in South Carolina, you’re not just offering a bed.
You’re offering new kind of freedom.
You’re giving a child the chance to:
- Feel safe and supported
- Heal from trauma
- Have a future they can believe in
So, Do You Want to Make This Independence Day Matter?
Here are a few meaningful ways you can support children in foster care this July 4th:
✅ Learn how to become a foster parent in South Carolina – It might be easier than you think
✅ Support children in foster care– With supplies, meals, gift cards, or volunteering
✅ Share this article – Help us raise awareness about the urgent need for foster families
✅ Reach out to a foster family you know – Ask them if they need any support
Freedom Without Family Isn’t Freedom
“The function of freedom is to free someone else.”
– Toni Morrison
Learn more about becoming a foster parent in South Carolina through the link provided below.