*This email is to serve as an example only. All information provided and connections contacted must be approved by the custodial agency.

Third Email Engagement Outreach

Dear, (name)

I’m reaching out in regards to (child’s name), I am (his/her) Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). As you know, I’ve reached out a few times via letter, email, and phone. We have identified you as a relative of (child’s name). As I’ve noted before, (child’s name) is still in the custody of (social services municipality) and I am working hard to identify the best possible supports for (child’s name).

The foster care system is overwhelmed by the number of children needing safe and loving homes. Right now, there are more than 400,000 kids in the foster care system, with 20,000 aging out each year, many without any connections or family to go home to. By age 26, two out of three foster teens that age out of care will have experienced homelessness, incarceration, or they will be dead. To learn more you can go to The Children’s Bureau at: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/cb/research-data-technology/statistics-research/afcars

Studies show that youth who have safe and loving connections with family before leaving the foster care system are more likely to become productive, healthy members of our society. I’m certain you’d agree that supportive family connections are essential to living a stable, happy life, and that every child deserves this opportunity. Imagine your life at 18 with no one to call for advice or help, and having no one to encourage you to be the best person you can be.

I hope you will consider helping (child’s name) during this difficult time. Please get in contact with us so you don’t lose the opportunity to connect with (child’s name) now or in the future. If children are adopted by another family, relatives may no longer have the option of being involved in the child’s life.

Sincerely,

(CASA name)

(additional contact info)