Sheridan Foster Parents Exchange Celebrates Ten Years of Service

The Sheridan Foster Parent Exchange celebrated 10 years of service to the community on Sunday, March 12, 2023, at the Exhibit Hall at the Fairgrounds. The Foster Parent Exchange was founded by Carla Crayton and her 8-year-old foster daughter in March of 2013. In 2022 the Christian group provided 2,428 services to children and their families in Sheridan and Johnson Counties and beyond.

Crayton, the excutive director, talked about what the Foster Parent Exchange is doing in Sheridan.

She said that many times children who have to go into the foster care system have to leave home with nothing but the clothes on their backs, or a few items stuffed in a trash bag. As a foster kid and foster parent herself, Crayton saw the need to have supplies right away to welcome a child into their new surroundings.

According to their website, in 2022 they provided 59 full kits; 324 partial kits; 462 holiday assists, and 475 back to school services.

As a part of the 10-year celebration, Deb Wendtland, Ramaco Foundation Board, presented Crayton and the Foster Parents Exchange with a $5000 donation. Wendtland said she made the presentation on behalf of Randy Atkins, CEO of Ramaco, who could not be at the event. She talked about the donation, and the fact that she had been helped by The Foster Parents Exchange.

Heather Neeriemer, board member of Sheridan Foster Parents Exchange, talked about the organization.

Items are packed up in nice bag, they get a book, three or four changes of clothes, pajamas and personal hygiene items.

She said they also do a great job on prevention and help with family re-unification.

She said she and her husband have had two foster children, and currently one has been adopted and one is with a more long-term family placement situation.

A good crowd attended the celebration, and Crayton recognized several volunteers as well. Live music was provided by the Tongue River Duo, and there were door prize drawings and a live auction.

Anyone interested in helping with the Sheridan Foster Parents exchange can go to the website at https://www.sheridanfosterparentexchange.org

Ways to help include cash donations, donations of gently used clothing, volunteer opportunities, or purchasing items off their Amazon wish list. Ridley’s Family Market points can also be donated to FPE. The Sheridan Foster Parents Exchange would like to thank all those who are helping to make a difference in the lives of children.