Foster and kinship carers are a critical support to the many children and families that face the trauma of separation and the need in the region is growing.
Operations manager for the north-east region Eriona Shirokaj said the need for foster carers was urgent.
“Every child has the right to experience safety, love and care. There are some children however in Wangaratta, Goulburn and Ovens Murray who need support because they are not able to live safely at home,” Ms Shirokaj said.
“Our community knows how to rally support around each other and that is why we are calling on people from the region to consider becoming foster carers. You can give a child a loving and safe place where they are welcomed and looked after.
“We are optimistic about working with people in our local community who are considering opening their homes to children in need as a fresh new option for people who have been involved in foster care before.”
Foster care providers like Life Without Barriers and Berry Street give training and support to those interested in becoming foster carers and spend time matching the right foster carer to the right child.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to providing care. Foster parents can come as couples or singles, with children of their own or none at all, and can be people in full-time, part-time, or casual work.
Victorian carer ambassador at Life Without Barriers Emma Doble said helping kids have a safe space to go while they are navigating change is such an incredible experience that she could not recommend enough.
“I have been a foster carer for over a year now with four kids in my care and I would encourage anyone who is interested to enquire,” Ms Doble said.
“Foster (caring) can be a night or a couple of nights a week through to emergency or respite care, or it can mean something more long-term.
“You can choose the option that works best for you and your family while receiving support from Life Without Barriers in the process.”
To find out more about foster care, contact Life Without Barriers at 1300 592 227 or visit https://www.lwb.org.au/foster-care/
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