Foster Parents Celebrated

By Jerrie Valli | Posted: Friday March 18, 2016

Family Works and Child, Youth and Family joined together to mark Foster Care Awareness Week, saying thank you to Southland foster parents. 

Family Works staff know just how invaluable Southland foster parents are.

Opening their homes to children in need has its rewards and its challenges, and Family Works provides ongoing support and assistance to foster families.

That’s why when it came to Foster Care Awareness Week (March 7 to 13) Family Works and Child, Youth and Family chose to celebrate by acknowledging foster parents.

Amost 50 foster parents attended an evening function; enjoying a chance to meet with other foster parents, and have a child-free outing.

Fish and chips and salad, a medley of desserts and a celebration cake were all on the menu, and the group was entertained by the Te Wharekura O Arowhenua choir.

Family Works Team Leader Margaret Knowler said the occasion was enjoyed by all.

“It was a good way for us to acknowledge the hard work that foster parents do and to give something back to them. They are amazing people taking vulnerable children into their homes. Whether it is short or long term, the value that having a safe place to live provides for the children is just immense,” she said.

There is a constant need for more foster families in Southland, particularly for teenagers.

Foster care does not need to be long term – the ultimate goal is for children to return to their families.

Family Works provides training, assistance and support to all foster families and encourages anyone interested in learning more to make contact.