As part of the program, WMAQ-TV will air a feature about one of the 30,000 foster children in the Chicago area seeking a permanent home as partof its 6 p.m. weeknight newscasts. The segment will be rerun on Channel 5's Sunday morning newscast. Writing in the Chicago Sun-Times, columnist Robert Feder noted that noteveryone thought the link was wise. Others may debate whether such a program has the potential to exploit the children involved by parading the mon television and possibly setting them up for rejection.
Proponents insist the benefits far outweigh the risks.
It also urges journalists to avoid conflicts of interest, real or perceived. Use special sensitivity when dealing with children and inexperienced sources or subjects.