The National Youth Advocate Program is an instrument of compassion and change for the lives of children, youth, families, and the systems that affect them. For the past five years, the NYAP Foster Care Agency in Baton Rouge has been a sanctuary of support for children in need, offering therapeutic foster care that addresses complex behavioral and medical needs. As a dedicated team, NYAP strives to provide a nurturing environment for those in foster care, and is committed to doing what is best for children, youth, and their families.

Comprehensive Support Services

The NYAP’s core mission is to provide non-negotiable commitment to providing a safe haven for children, youth, and their families. Their approach is rooted in this belief, and staff work tirelessly to provide opportunities for families through innovative programs and services. When a family cannot care for their children and youth, NYAP provides secure, nurturing, and enriching foster care while families seek out help. “In foster care, the ultimate goal is for the family to overcome their challenges, so their children and youth can be reunited with them,” says Abbie Comeaux, Community Outreach Partner at NYAP. NYAP recruits and trains highly-skilled foster parents and dedicated employees who provide the necessary support, treatment, and care until children and youth can be reunited with
their families.

One program in particular, the Positive Youth Development program, focuses on at-risk youth, providing intensive treatment to help them live safely and successfully within their families and communities. By targeting the specific needs of these youth, NYAP aims to foster positive growth and stability, equipping them with the skills and support necessary for a successful future.

 Family Preservation is the Ultimate Goal

Above all, NYAP aims to help restore families. They offer programs and services such as Intensive Home-Based Therapy (IHBT), which includes individualized and comprehensive support services designed to keep families together and promote the reunification of families who have been separated. In addition, NYAP offers Parent Assessment Services, which are designed to enhance parental capacity through in-home evaluations of strengths and needs within the family unit. Finally, one of the most helpful resources for families is Wraparound Services which are evidence-based therapeutic services designed to help families access basic resources, improve safety, and enhance their overall stability and well-being.

Security During the Foster Care Process

“Our focus on therapeutic foster care is essential in addressing the unique and often demanding needs of the children who come into our care,” says Comeaux. Unlike traditional foster care, therapeutic foster care caters to children with significant behavioral or medical issues. These children have endured significant trauma or other adverse conditions that require a higher level of support and understanding. In addition to therapeutic foster care, NYAP emphasizes the importance of staying close to Baton Rouge, to ensure an accessible network of emergency care. This geographical focus ensures that children in foster care can receive immediate assistance in the event of an emergency. With this, NYAP can facilitate a smooth transition and overall better care for
its children.

Foster Care Needed for Teens

Perhaps one of the most pressing needs in foster care systems today is placements of teengers. Unfortunately, teens in foster care are often overlooked, yet they represent a significant portion of the children in need. In Louisiana, there are approximately 4,000 kids in foster care, looking for homes, with a substantial number being teenagers. This age group often faces challenges that deter many from considering fostering, but teenagers can be remarkably self-sufficient
and resilient.

 While foster care holds a unique set of challenges, fostering a teen can come with a myriad of challenges and rewards. Teenagers are at a stage in life where they are developing their own identity, self-awareness, and are aware of their circumstances. They require a supportive and understanding environment that can provide guidance and stability. NYAP recognizes this and is committed to supporting its foster parents in providing the best possible care for these adolescents.

Support for Foster Parents

Becoming a foster parent is a significant commitment, and the NYAP agency is here to offer extensive support to ensure a positive experience for both the child and the foster family. NYAP provides a range of support services, including financial assistance to cover the needs of the children and emotional support for foster parents navigating the complexities of
this role.

Become a Foster Parent Today

Fostering a child is a profound responsibility and a significant decision, and NYAP is here to support foster parents every step of the way. By joining NYAP, parents become part of a compassionate community committed to making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children in Baton Rouge. “Together, we can provide the nurturing environment that these children need and help guide them through their challenging times with care and understanding.” For more information, visit nyap.org.