Christian Bale, the acclaimed British actor known for his role as “Batman,” has turned his attention and resources to a cause close to his heart: keeping sibling groups together within the foster care system. Inspired by his own concerns about the well-being of his children should he and his wife be unable to care for them, Bale is backing a new community in Los Angeles County aimed at providing stable homes for foster children, with a particular emphasis on keeping brothers and sisters together.
The Problem: Sibling Separation in Foster Care
The issue of sibling separation in foster care is a widespread problem. Studies suggest that as many as three-quarters of children entering the foster care system are not placed with their siblings. This separation can have devastating consequences for children who have already experienced the trauma of being removed from their homes.
A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) explained that siblings aren’t always placed together for various reasons, including situations where half-siblings reside with non-offending parents, children from blended families live with relatives, or a child requires specialized care. However, a significant factor is simply the lack of foster homes with the space and resources to accommodate large sibling groups.
The Benefits of Keeping Siblings Together
The benefits of placing siblings together are well-documented. Children placed with their siblings tend to exhibit fewer behavioral problems, adapt more easily to their foster homes, perform better academically, and maintain crucial emotional support systems.
As one mother at Peppers Ranch, a similar community outside Oklahoma City, noted, younger children often rely on older siblings for guidance and support, while older siblings may find purpose and responsibility in caring for their younger siblings. Separating them can disrupt these vital relationships and leave children feeling isolated and alone.
The DCFS spokesperson emphasized that the shared experiences of siblings living together – playing, confiding in one another, and participating in family activities – create lasting memories and strong bonds, and that separating siblings can exacerbate the trauma they experience.
Together California: A New Approach to Foster Care
To address this issue, Bale is supporting Together California, a new community set to open in Palmdale, Los Angeles County, next year. This innovative project will provide a supportive environment for families caring for foster children, with a focus on keeping sibling groups together.
Here’s how Together California will work:
- Purpose-Built Homes: The community will consist of a dozen homes, each licensed to care for up to six children. These homes are specifically designed to accommodate large groups, featuring industrial-sized washing machines and refrigerators.
- Certified Foster Parents: Each family will have one certified foster parent who receives a stipend to provide full-time care for the children.
- Comprehensive Support Services: A community center will offer a range of resources, including parenting classes, counseling, and tutoring services. This eliminates the need for foster children to travel long distances for these essential services. The center will also provide a safe and comfortable venue for visits with biological families.
- Transitional Living Apartments: Two apartments will be available for young adults transitioning out of foster care, providing them with a stable and supportive environment as they begin their independent lives.
Addressing the Challenges of Foster Care
Tim McCormick, Together California’s executive director, acknowledges the challenges of caring for children in the foster care system. He notes that children entering foster care today often have complex behavioral issues stemming from a lifetime of abuse, neglect, or exposure to drugs, alcohol, and domestic violence.
To prepare foster parents for these challenges, Together California will provide extensive training, including how to handle children dealing with high levels of trauma. Newer foster parents will also have the opportunity to shadow veteran parents to gain practical experience and learn effective strategies.
McCormick emphasizes the need for foster parents to make a three-year commitment, likening it to the Peace Corps. He is seeking individuals with a “missionary spirit” and a deep commitment to providing a safe and nurturing environment for foster children. He has stated that he would only consider foster parents in whose homes he would feel comfortable placing his own children.
A Collaborative Effort
Together California is a nonsectarian organization, but it recognizes the important role that faith communities can play in supporting foster families. Religious organizations often provide crucial emotional and practical support to foster parents, helping them to navigate the challenges of the role.
The project is funded by a $30 million fundraising campaign, with over $25 million already committed. The funds will be used for construction, furniture, and other essential resources.
Bale has been actively involved in the project, providing financial support and offering input on various aspects, including the floor design. He has also attended DCFS meetings, demonstrating his deep commitment to the well-being of foster children.
Rekindling the Light
McCormick describes his ultimate goal as rekindling the light in the eyes of children entering foster care. He and Bale share a deep idealism and a belief that they can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these vulnerable children.
Bale has expressed that he wants to be remembered for doing good and making a positive impact on the world, and that this project will be one of the things he is most proud of.