FOSTER: Improve system, pay more

I have been following the story in your paper regarding the Clarks' (foster parents) situation. While there are many dedicated people who do this, it is a very time-consuming, difficult job, to be sure.

I think most people do not have a clue of all the hoops a foster parent must go through and all for about $8-10 per child, 24 hours a day. While I am not excusing the Clarks in any way, how many people reading this would do this for that kind of pay?

The demands put on foster parents are many. Often kids are brought to you infected with lice and many behavior problems. I think if Idaho wants to attract the best foster parents, it should bring its pay up to the standard of other states. There's that old saying: You get what you pay for.

Many foster children grow up very damaged due to not only neglect and abuse by their biological parents, but also by their foster parents. Often times, case workers do not see the true picture of what really transpires in the homes they have placed children. You cannot take away the hurt and bruises of that child by giving him more of the same.

Idaho, we can do better. People who say we cannot afford to pay more, need to look at the big picture. As adults, damaged foster children add tremendous financial burdens on many agencies. Truly loving, kind, nurturing foster parents can turn that around.

B. WHITE

Sagle