OHIO YAB Advocacy for Sibling Connections

The OHIO Youth Advisory Board is launching a statewide Youth Letter Writing Campaign to educate legislators about the need to better support Sibling Connections.

Here are two sample letters from:

• OHIO YAB Vice President Samantha Dillon
• OHIO YAB Parliamentarian Stevie Hayslip

Step 1: Find out who your representative is at:
https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislators/find-my-legislators

Step 2: You can use this template, and personalize it for your letter: (please also email a copy of your letter to us, at info@fosteractionohio.org)

Your Name
Your Address
City, State, Zip

Dear Representative ___________________,

My name is _____________ and I am a current/former foster youth. I am writing to urge your support for House Bill 448, the Fostering Siblings Connections Act. HB 448 was introduced by Representatives Sarah LaTourette and Janine Boyd.

Federal law already requires that states make efforts to sustain these connections, but Ohio law must be strengthened to ensure that this happens.

This bill:

• Broadens the definition of siblings in a way that reflects what foster youth experience.
• Provides foster youth with the legal tools necessary to ensure they remain connected.
• Requires courts and placement agencies to make efforts to place siblings together or permit ongoing interaction.
• Provides courts with flexibility and oversight to ensure that children’s’ best interests are met when enforcing the law.

I support this bill because: (in your own words)
This bill matters to me because: (in your own words) 

Please support HB 448 to protect the rights of siblings in and from foster care to continue these vital life-long relationships,

Sincerely,

[Your Name]