News from Franklin County Children Services

For teenagers in foster care who are thinking about life after high school, the decision on choosing a college or career path can come with unexpected obstacles.  That’s why Franklin County Children Services is helping young people in the agency’s care navigate those challenges by connecting them with educational resources, financial aid guidance, and opportunities to plan for their futures. “We know they have challenges focusing on more than the here and now,” said Staci Pelton, a member of the FCCS Education Supports team which works with youth connected to the agency on identifying academic goals and accessing resources that can support their academic journey past high school. According to national research from the Annie E. Casey Foundation, as low as 29% of youth with a foster care history enroll in college or other postsecondary programs after high school. As Ms. Pelton points out, these findings highlight the persistent barriers and the need for continued guidance and suppor...

As daylight saving time ends and sunset comes earlier, Franklin County Children Services wants children in our community to stay SAFE & SEEN by finding safer ways during these shorter days.   “That extra hour of sleep felt like a treat, but turning back the clocks brings more than just a change in routine,” said FCCS mascot Ted E Bear - the bear who cares about keeping children safer. “It’s going to start getting dark earlier and earlier each day, and that makes visibility and attentiveness especially important for children walking to school, waiting at bus stops, and traveling through their neighborhoods.”  Walking Safety in Changing Daylight  As daylight hours grow shorter, Ted E Bear encourages families to revisit their children’s walking routes and prepare for changing visibility conditions, particularly during afternoon commutes.  Walk the route together: Review the path during morning and afternoon hours to identify busy intersections, poorly lit area...

Are you ready to roll, shred, and celebrate this Saturday? Our team at Franklin County Children Services looks forward to seeing you and your awesome mentor/caregiver at Spooky Skate Jam 2026 this Saturday, October 10th, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Below are a few important reminders to help your arrival and check-in go smoothly. Parking Parking is available at the following locations: Schneider Park next to the Community Gardens Along Sheridan Avenue Along Astor Avenue Please do not park in the lot across from Moshi Sushi on Main Street, as that lot is reserved for business patrons.  Event Registration Location Schneider Shelter House 853 Village Creek Dr. Although the address is listed as Bexley Skate Park, 2130 Astor Ave, the skate park is located inside the larger park. All participants must first check in at the Schneider Shelter House (853 Village Creek Dr.) before heading to the skate area. Staff and volunteers will guide youth to the skate park in groups after regis...