Sample Press Advisory Community Task Force on Homes for Children 2170 Pacific Ave. San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 563-8109 For further information contact: Jim Smith, Assistant Director 555-1313 office, home 903-9898 Press Advisory Impact of Crack Epidemic on Foster Care In California the number of children in foster care increased by 28%, from 49,978 to 63,987, between 1995-1997 (Including status offenders and juveniles).* In the Bay Area, the average number of children in foster care increased 36%, from 6,843 to 9,271, between 1995-1997* In San Francisco 77% of children entering foster care today are doing so as a result of the crack epidemic.** * Source: California Department of Social Services, Foster Care Information System **Source: San Francisco Chronicle To discuss the critical need for foster families exacerbated by the crack epidemic, child neglect and abuse, The Community Task Force on homes for Children invites you to a Press Conference: DATE: Tuesday, April 15, 1997 TIME: 11:00 a.m. PLACE: Children's Home Society, 3000 California Avenue, (415) 922-2803 (Marsha Adams) PARTICIPANTS: Joe Black, Chief, California Department of Social Services, Adoptions Branch Dr. Kathy Young, Asst. Clinical Prof. of Pediatrics, UCSF and Attending Neonatologist, at UCSF and Mt. Zion Helen Thompson, Alameda Department of Social Services, Asst. Agency Director James King, Foster Parent, San Mateo MODERATOR: David Klein, Chair, The Community Task Force on Homes for Children The purpose of this news conference is to alert the press to the foster care crisis in 1997. The press conference will include the statistical, medical, and social service aspects of the issue as well as the personal perspectives of foster parents. Contributor Eric Wadud
