(From l-r): Rene Rajotte, president of the Alberta Foster and Kinship Association (AFKA), Minister of Children and Family Services Searle Turton, AFKA CEO Melissa Jones and Elder Philip Campiou raise a flag commemorating the start of Foster and Kinship Caregiver Month.
“Foster and kinship caregivers open their hearts and homes to children and youth in need of a safe, loving and temporary home. This October, we celebrate the compassion, dedication and selflessness of the 2,200 kinship caregivers and 1,500 foster caregivers in taking care of some of Alberta’s most vulnerable young people.
“Children and youth who come into care face many challenges, and it’s foster and kinship caregivers who step up to provide the comfort and stability they need to overcome them. From offering a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on, to ensuring kids remain connected to their siblings, culture and community, these incredible individuals give more than 6,000 children, youth and young people the opportunity to have a bright, successful future.
“Thank you is not enough to express how grateful we are to partner with foster and kinship caregivers. That’s why we’re committed to strengthening resources and supports for caregivers, including increasing caregiver rates and access to mental health counselling, providing additional supports for foster caregivers assisting young adults in the transition from care, and investing more than $23.6 million in new supports for foster caregivers.
“I encourage anyone interested in making a meaningful, life-changing difference for Alberta’s children and youth to consider becoming a foster or kinship caregiver. Whether you’re single or raising a family, live in a city or in the country, we need caregivers like you to make sure young people have the stability, connection and support they need to grow, thrive and realize their full potential.”
Related information
Related news
- Easing financial strain for foster families (June 5, 2024)
- Increasing supports for foster caregivers (Oct. 24, 2023)
- Campaign highlights need for foster parents (Feb. 3, 2023)