PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY — John and Christina Hayes were recognized among this year’s outstanding foster parents on Wednesday.
Foster parents from 10 jurisdictions in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia were honored by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) Board of Directors as the region’s 2019 Foster Parents of the Year.
John and Christina Hayes originally requested to care for young children and infants, but when they were asked to take care of a 15-year-old, special needs child, they immediately agreed. They made sure that all of his medical and educational needs were met in addition to participating in activities like basketball, baseball, and golf.
They have worked with both of his biological parents to make sure they continue to be involved in his life. He is now 18 years old and they want him to remain with them as part of their family. In addition, the Hayes family welcomed a three-week-old baby girl, who was placed with them last October.
COG partners with local and state child welfare agencies around the region to recognize these outstanding parents on an annual basis. Child welfare workers strive to keep families together, but when that it is not possible, foster families can provide the necessary support. In the region, the number of children in foster care has declined by 47 percent since 2008, according to data compiled by COG.
“These outstanding foster parents have gone above and beyond to provide children a safe and nurturing home until they can be reunified with their birth family or achieve permanency through adoption or guardianship,” said COG Community Planning and Services Director Paul DesJardin. “We appreciate their service to the region and making a difference in these children’s lives.”
Recent Stories
On Monday, November 18, 2024, the Manassas City Council and School Board convened a joint meeting to discuss findings from a space needs study and the future of shared facilities for critical city and school operations.
A rendering of the new Potomac Shores Station House. [Courtesy] From left to right: Dallon Cheney, KLNB Commercial Real Estate; Peter Chavkin, Biddle Real Estate Ventures; Andrea Bailey, Supervisor, Potomac…
Fredericksburg Police are investigating a pedestrian accident on November 18, 2024, where a 50-year-old man was struck by a vehicle on Fall Hill Avenue and critically injured. The driver remained at the scene, and the investigation is ongoing.
Stafford residents, led by former Hartwood District Supervisor Joe Brito, are rallying ahead of tonight’s Board of Supervisors meeting to advocate for transforming the closed Cannon Ridge Golf Course into a regional historical riverfront park and for transportation impact fees on developers.
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.
We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.
Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.
Sing a Song of Christmas!!!
Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise
