(Idaho State) The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) and the Idaho State Historical Society’s Idaho State Museum are excited to announce a new partnership that will provide free museum access to foster families and youth in foster care throughout 2025. This initiative aims to enrich the lives of foster children and their families by building a deeper connection to Idaho’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Early in 2025, foster families will receive reusable museum passes that grant unlimited visits to the Idaho State Museum, located in Julia Davis Park in downtown Boise. The passes will be valid for the 2025 calendar year. The passes are intended to create opportunities for learning, bonding, and inspiration through the museum’s interactive exhibits and historical displays.
“We are excited to partner with the Department of Health and Welfare to make Idaho history more accessible to foster families who want to visit the Idaho State Museum,” said Museum Administrator Sarah Phillips.
The museum’s exhibits celebrate Idaho’s diverse cultural, natural, and historical contributions, making it a vibrant educational resource for all ages. The partnership highlights the importance of community collaboration to support foster families and ensure that youth in care have access to enriching experiences that can shape their futures.
“Providing foster families with perks like free museum access is just one way we can show our appreciation for their dedication and support,” said DHW Deputy Director Monty Prow. “Access to Idaho’s history and cultural resources not only enriches their lives but also helps foster children build a sense of identity and connection to the community.”
The new museum passes build on initiatives launched by DHW earlier this year to further support foster families. Those include offering free access to all of Idaho’s state parks, launching the new Foster Family Monthly newsletter, and hosting a monthly foster parent community forum.
“Through partnerships like this, we’re not only offering foster families opportunities for fun and learning but also demonstrating that they are a valued part of our community,” Prow said. “When we invest in enriching experiences like these, we’re investing in the futures of Idaho’s foster children and their families.”
