18 Degrees Hosts Info Sessions on Becoming a Foster Parent

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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 18 Degrees announced a series of informative sessions for individuals and families interested in becoming foster parents. Interested parties can select from information sessions held virtually on Sept. 26 at 12:30 pm, Sept. 30 at 7:30 pm, and Oct. 9 at 9:00 am.
 
Registration information is available online, www.18degreesma.org.
 
Foster care plays a crucial role in providing safe, nurturing environments for children who have experienced trauma and instability. The need for foster families is greater now than ever, and 18 Degrees is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and loving environment, according to a press release.
 
Each info session will cover:
  • Understanding Foster Care: Learn about the foster care system, its purpose, and the types of children in need of foster homes.
  • Requirements to Become a Foster Parent: Discover the qualifications needed, the application process, and what’s expected from foster parents.
  • Support and Resources: Explore the training, resources, and ongoing support available to foster parents through 18 Degrees.
  • Personal Testimonials: Hear inspiring stories from current foster parents and how the experience has enriched their lives.
"Fostering is more than providing a roof over a child’s head; it's about creating a sense of belonging, offering stability and nurturing the potential in each child," said Stephanie Steed, President and CEO of 18 Degrees. "We invite anyone who has considered becoming a foster parent or is simply curious about the process to join us. Together, we can make a meaningful impact in our community."
 
All community members are welcome. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and meet staff members from the 18 Degrees Healing Homes team.
 
"Over the past seven years with Healing Homes, our family has welcomed nearly 30 children," said Alicia, a foster parent with 18 Degrees. "Whether it was just for a night, three years, or any period in between, we are incredibly grateful for the time we spent with each child. The dedicated staff at 18 Degrees has been an anchor, helping us celebrate milestones and navigate challenges."
 
For more information about the info sessions or to RSVP, please contact Sarah Frederick at info@18degreesma.org or visit www.18degreesma.org
If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

Hancock Man Held on $250K in Pedestrian Hit&Run

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — A Hancock man accused in last week's dragging death of William Colbert, 69, is being held on $250,000 bail. 
 
William Gross, 65, had not-guilty pleas entered on his behalf on charges of leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death and negligent motor vehicle homicide.
 
He was arraigned Wednesday morning in Central Berkshire District Court.
 
Police say Colbert was struck at the intersection Francis Street and Linden Street at about 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 and his body was found more than three miles away on West Housatonic Street. 
 
Investigators secured multiple video surveillance footage from local businesses and private residences that traced the route of the vehicle, a dark sedan. 
 
Gross's car matched the description they were able secure from video evidence. According to police, he reported leaving work in Pittsfield around 11:30 p.m. on Feb. 10 and driving a route consistent to the one being investigated. The vehicle demonstrated damage consistent with one being involved in the hit and run.
 
He was brought in for questioning and then taken to Berkshire Medical Center for unrelated health concerns. 
 
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