Georgia officials are continuing to urge residents to consider becoming foster parents as the state faces a growing shortage of foster homes, while local police are also warning families about a rise in dangerous e-bike crashes involving children.
According to state leaders, more than 11,000 children are currently in Georgia’s foster care system, but the number of licensed foster homes has dropped sharply in recent years. Officials say Georgia has seen a 40% decline in foster families since 2019, nearly double the national average.
Advocates are encouraging more families to step forward as foster parents, saying the need for stable homes continues to grow across the state.
Meanwhile, Roswell police are raising concerns over an increase in crashes and injuries involving children riding high-powered electric bikes. Officers say many children are operating e-bikes that they are either too young to legally ride or are using in prohibited areas such as sidewalks.
Police also report that many riders are not wearing helmets, despite Georgia law requiring protective headgear for certain riders. Officials are encouraging parents to pay closer attention to the type of electric vehicles their children are using and where they are riding them.
As Mother’s Day weekend approaches, metro Atlanta is also preparing for a busy lineup of festivals, family events, and free attractions.
Zoo Atlanta and the College Football Hall of Fame will both offer free admission for mothers on Sunday. Additional events taking place throughout the weekend include Smoke on the Lake BBQ Fest in Acworth, the Chastain Park Spring Arts Festival, Sweet Auburn Springfest, the Dunwoody Art Festival, the Sandy Springs Lantern Parade, and appearances by the Savannah Bananas at Truist Park.
The High Museum of Art will also offer free admission to all visitors on Sunday as part of the weekend festivities.
Officials expect large crowds across metro Atlanta as families celebrate Mother’s Day while also taking advantage of community events and outdoor activities.