BY STAFF REPORTS

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Cherokee Nation Indian Child Welfare’s recent inquiries from individuals interested in foster care or adoption has increased in the last year, but there continues to be a great need for additional families.

“From July 2011 to June 2012 there has been an estimated 43 percent increase in applications received and the month is not finished yet,” ICW specialist Nancie Ross said.

Ross said the ICW is test running the social media avenue with Homes for Cherokee Kids Facebook page, that launched on March 8.  

“Facebook members can go to the Homes for Cherokee Kids Facebook page, which is a public page and click on the Like icon. The followers who like the page will receive posts made on the Facebook page and can comment on the posts,” Ross said. “The posts made on the Facebook page are informational about the foster care and adoption programs or a motivational quote.” 

She said the page also contains links to the www.cherokeekids.org webpage that contains more information on the program, as well as an online inquiry form that interested individuals can submit online.  

“Those online inquiries are received by designated Indian Child Welfare workers, who make contact with the interested individuals,” Ross said.

ICW certifies Native American families in Oklahoma and surrounding states who are willing to provide foster care for Cherokee children.

Ross said the greatest current need is for homes in the Oklahoma, Sequoyah, Leflore, Tulsa, Cherokee and Delaware counties. 

“American Indian adoptive homes are needed throughout the U.S. for placement of Cherokee children. Our greatest need for adoptive families is in Oklahoma, California, Kansas and Arkansas,” she said.