It used to be that if a Native American child needed a home, the extended family came to the rescue. Changing times and lifestyles, however, have put American Indian kids into Maricopa County's adoption system. In many cases, the kids come from families who have moved away from reservations into cities with plans to find jobs or get an education. Although a majority of Indian families adjust and succeed in new environments, others don't.
Some parents resort to substance abuse and become homeless, leaving children to fend for themselves.
I think the influence of drugs and substance abuse has changed that. The center is looking for 52 urban Native American foster families in Maricopa and Pinal counties. Ideally, Browning wants to match Indian children with their tribes because they will learn more about their roots. If not, Browning wants to connect the kids with other tribal families. He also is open to simply placing an Indian child with a loving family regardless of race or income.