Office of the Child Advocate of Delaware

Before May comes to a close, The Office of the Child Advocate would like to recognize National Foster Care Month. Thank you to all those committed to doing more to support youth in foster care.

The need for foster parents is growing. Children of all ages are waiting for safe, caring homes and supportive adults in their lives.

You don’t have to have all the answers to take the first step. If you’ve ever considered fostering, check out an information session with Delaware Children's Department - DSCYF and learn how you can support children in our community.

Our offices will be closed today in observance of Memorial Day. Our regular office hours will resume tomorrow, May 26th.

Join us in recognizing National Foster Care Month by attending one of these sessions!

May is Foster Care Awareness Month, and the need for foster parents is growing. Children of all ages are waiting for safe, caring homes and supportive adults in their lives.

You don’t have to have all the answers to take the first step. If you’ve ever considered fostering, check out an information session with one of our partner agencies and learn how you can support children in our community.

Children's Choice, Inc.
Delaware Children's Department - DSCYF
A Better Chance For Our Children
Children & Families First Delaware

"Since 2022, Sharada has served as a dedicated CASA, providing a powerful consistent voice for numerous abused and neglected children navigating the foster care and court systems. With Compassion, thoroughness and unwavering commitment, Sharada has effectively championed the best interest of each child, ensuring their unique needs, safety, and futures are thoughtfully represented in every decision. Through diligent casework, collaboration with professionals and heartfelt advocacy, Sharada has made a profound difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Sharada's selfless service exemplifies the true spirit of CASA and stands as an inspiring model of community impact." - Tahira Ayyaz

"My name is Sharada Manns, I am a chemist by profession. I joined CASA in 2022. I always wanted to advocate to under-represented children, and thought volunteering as a CASA would be a great way to do that. My most memorable moment was assisting a teenager move foster homes and the amount of growth he has accomplished with his new foster family.

Three interesting facts:
- I grew up in India
- I have two amazing daughters
I like to garden and go for long walks in my free time"

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families in Delaware? The Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) seeks a dedicated and experienced professional to join our team as the OCA Training Director. Join us in our mission to safeguard the welfare of Delaware's children.
To apply, visit:https://lnkd.in/eUpS2Z9b

Congratulations, Shakia, on your recent graduation from the Delaware State University! Last Friday, May 15, 2026, Shakia Register walked across the stage cheered on by her two kids and Child Advocate, Kelly Ensslin. Shakia graduates with her MSW and looks forward to starting her career helping others! Shakia was supported in-part through scholarships from the OCA, though her determination, goal-focused mindset and positivity drove her to achieve her goals. Way to go Shakia!

This weekend celebrates the hard work and determination that brought Azmera Harmon to graduation at Delaware State University! Azmera is graduating with a degree in Public Health and utilized the Tuition Waiver Program. The Office of the Child Advocate, Delaware Children's Department - DSCYF, and Delaware State University are excited to celebrate Azmera’s huge accomplishment! Azmera’s future is bright, and this is just the beginning of many achievements. Congratulations Azmera!

Join us in celebrating National Foster Care Month and committing to doing more to support youth in foster care. You can help by becoming a CASA volunteer and advocating for a child experiencing foster care.

To learn more, visit us at: https://tinyurl.com/DECASA

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and families in Delaware? The Office of the Child Advocate (OCA) seeks a dedicated and experienced professional to join our team as the OCA Training Director. Join us in our mission to safeguard the welfare of Delaware's children.

To apply, visit: https://lnkd.in/eUpS2Z9b

Come stop by our CASA table at the annual Wilmington Flower Market! Our table is next to the WSTW main stage, and we'll be at Rockford Park through Saturday! Visit our booth to meet our team and learn about the impact a dedicated volunteer can have on a child’s life.