Providing hope and support to some of the province's most vulnerable children and youth - thousands of foster families make this remarkable contribution to society every day.
October is Foster Family Month in B.C., a time to honour the care, compassion and commitment of the 3,300 foster families in the province who open their hearts to give children a safe, nurturing and supportive home when they are unable to be with their own families.
Fostering enables children, youth and their families to come through some of the most challenging situations and, by building on their strengths, helps to develop the resilience they need to reach their full potential.
"Foster families are among the most unique families in our society and a cornerstone in our services for young people in need," said Mary McNeil, Minister of Children and Family Development. "Foster parents readily sacrifice their time and energy to help change the lives of the children they welcome into their homes. They make our children, our families and entire communities stronger -and we are forever grateful."
The B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations and the Federation of Aboriginal Foster Parents offer support, encouragement and a voice for B.C.'s foster parents. In partnership with the provincial government, the organizations focus on public awareness and recruitment and retention of foster parents to help build the best system of care for B.C.'s children and youth.
This year, the start of Foster Family Month coincides with National Family Week (Oct. 3 to 9) -another opportunity to reflect on the many benefits of being part of a family.
Foster family homes are the primary placement resource for children in care. B.C. has approximately 8,100 children and youth in its care. Of these, about 5,900 children and youth are placed with approximately 3,300 foster families across the province.
Interested in fostering? Visit: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/foster or call the toll-free Foster Line at 1 800 663-9999.
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