 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|
October 16, 2009
Important contributions of foster parents recognized during Foster Family Week
Edmonton... National Foster Family Week, October 19-25th, is a time to applaud the dedication of thousands of Albertans who open their hearts and homes to children and youth whose parents are not able to give them a safe or nurturing place to live.
This October is also the one-year anniversary of an ongoing effort by the Alberta government and its partners to find more foster parents and Aboriginal caregivers. Since October 1st, 2008, more than 700 new foster and kinship care homes (where extended family cares for a child), have been brought on stream.
“Every day, in every region of our province, foster parents provide a caring and supportive home to young people who are going through a troubling or difficult time in their lives,” said Janis Tarchuk, Minister of Children and Youth Services. “Foster parents’ work makes a huge difference helping create positive futures for some of our most vulnerable children and youth.”
In every region of our province, there is still a need for more families able to offer a safe, healthy and stable environment for children. With more foster homes, more children can be matched with families who best meet their needs, such as keeping siblings together, helping children stay in their home communities and maintaining important cultural ties.
“Offering to raise someone else’s child and welcoming them into your home is a big commitment and takes a special person,” said Tarchuk. “The results of the first year of our campaign are excellent and they show the important role communities play in helping us care for children and youth needing our support.”
Work to recruit more foster parents and Aboriginal caregivers is also happening through a new initiative called “A Child’s Hope.” Under this initiative, people who are already fostering, or have adopted or are mentoring a child will speak to other community members about making a difference by becoming involved.
For more information on fostering, kinship care, adoption or mentoring, visit www.achildshope.alberta.ca or call 780-422-3333.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Susan Johnson, Communications
Alberta Children and Youth Services
780-427-4801
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
Alberta Government | Newsroom | Ministries Listing | Children and Youth Services Home Page | News Releases | Top of Page |
Send us your comments or questions
Copyright(©) 2009 Government of Alberta
