Project Visitation was created to maintain the relationship between brothers and sisters living in separate foster homes. Project Visitation volunteers support this mission by bringing siblings together for monthly visits.

Description:
For many children, losing contact with their brothers and sisters is the most difficult part about being in foster care. Although the children are finally safe in foster homes, it just isn't enough if they feel they have lost their entire family. Individuals can give:
TIME: each monthly visit involves between 4 to 8 hrs. of time dedicated to the bonding of the foster siblings; or
RESOURCES: money, tickets, lunch vouchers, coupons, or any other item that helps offset volunteer expense.
Community organizations and groups can also plan events for the children to participate in. In the past, we've had partner organizations plan magic shows, trips to the zoo, days at the beach, football games, the only limit is your creativity!

History:
State Department of Human Services, Family Programs Hawaii (fka Foster Family Programs and Friends of Foster Kids), and the Hawaii Foster Parents Association. Judge R. Mark Browning, to complement the efforts and goals of Na Keiki Law Center, spearheaded Project Visitation. Judge Browning knew from experience that many children placed in foster care end up in separate homes and do not have the opportunity to maintain contact with their brothers and sisters. The purpose of Project Visitation is to maintain sibling relationships by coordinating visits that give foster children an opportunity to spend time with their siblings and strengthen their bonds and connections to one another.

Contact people:

Vince Abramo, Volunteer Coordinator, (phone), (email) Nancy Lefler-Panela, Project Visitation Coordinator, (phone), (email)

Address:

680 Ala Moana Blvd., Ste. 200 Honolulu, HI 96813 (See a map)

Web Site: http://www.familyprogramshawaii.org