CarePortal Expands Services to Augusta County

Nonprofit platform connects local churches with vulnerable children and families in need.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The nonprofit platform CarePortal has expanded its services to Augusta County, Virginia, connecting local churches with vulnerable children and families in need. CarePortal uses technology to link child welfare agencies with congregations, allowing them to respond directly to specific needs such as beds, car seats, mentorship, and foster care support.

Why it matters

The CarePortal platform aims to strengthen families and reduce strain on the foster care system by providing tangible support to those in need before crises escalate. It also raises awareness about the urgent need for more foster families in the local community.

The details

CarePortal launched in the Rockingham and Harrisonburg area in June 2026 and has already served 190 children. The recent expansion event in Augusta County marked a community-wide commitment to supporting families before problems turn into catastrophes. Through the platform, churches are notified of vetted requests from child welfare professionals and can respond in real time, providing meaningful connections and resources.

  • CarePortal launched in the Rockingham and Harrisonburg area in June 2026.
  • The recent expansion event in Augusta County took place in February 2026.

The players

CarePortal

A nonprofit platform that connects local churches with vulnerable children and families in need.

Jennifer-Rose Eccles

The director of CarePortal.

Sarah Russell

The co-director of the local CarePortal initiative.

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What they’re saying

“It wasn't just a launching event. It was a community saying yes to supporting families before crises turn into catastrophes.”

— Jennifer-Rose Eccles, Director of CarePortal (whsv.com)

“It brings awareness to our local community for the desperate need for foster families. Too often our children and babies are going to distant, far-off places to heal, when really it's only creating more grief and more suffering. They deserve a chance to heal at home.”

— Sarah Russell, Co-director of the local CarePortal initiative (whsv.com)

What’s next

Organizers say they hope the continued growth of the CarePortal platform will mobilize more churches and community members to step in and support vulnerable families before they reach a breaking point.

The takeaway

CarePortal's expansion to Augusta County demonstrates the power of community-based initiatives to strengthen families and address the urgent need for foster care support. By connecting local churches with child welfare agencies, the platform is providing tangible resources and meaningful connections to those in need, helping to prevent crises and support the well-being of children and families.