Tennessee – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee highlighted a statewide milestone in support for foster families, saying more than 1,000 businesses have partnered with Tennessee Kids Belong to help families caring for children in foster care.

“Tennessee is at its best when businesses & local communities come together to serve our most vulnerable children & support the families who care for them,” Lee said. He added that he was grateful to join Tennessee Kids Belong as the organization announced the milestone.

The announcement follows a growing statewide effort to involve businesses in supporting foster families. WBBJ reported that the businesses participating in the Foster Friendly program provide discounts, experiences and other offers designed to remove barriers for foster families.

The Foster Friendly program allows participating businesses to provide support through the Foster Friendly App, which connects foster families with businesses offering various benefits. The offers can include meals, family activities, photography, hair care, memberships and other practical services.

Tennessee Kids Belong Executive Director Kristin Allender said the program was intended to encourage businesses to become part of the broader effort to support foster families rather than simply provide discounts.

The organization’s latest figures show that 1,017 Tennessee businesses are now offering discounts to foster families. It also reported that 209 foster family wraparound teams have been launched, serving 941 foster children, while 164 faith communities have become involved.

The milestone comes as Tennessee continues to face challenges in providing stable homes and support for children in foster care. A statewide initiative launched through the Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative works with nonprofit organizations, businesses, faith communities and other community partners to support children and families involved with foster care.

WBBJ reported that the Foster Friendly App is currently used by about 2,500 foster parents in Tennessee and more than 22,000 foster families nationwide.

Lee has emphasized the role of private businesses and local communities in helping foster families, pointing to the growing number of companies participating in the program as an example of organizations working together to support vulnerable children.

The statewide effort is intended to give foster families additional resources and community support while businesses play a direct role in helping families navigate the demands of fostering.