Foster parents needed

Photo: ajr_images

If you are looking for a way to make a difference in the lives of others, foster parents are desperately needed in the Central Okanagan.

According to the Central Okanagan Foster Parents Association, children are waiting for a place to temporarily call home and they are hoping information sessions will help local adults consider becoming new foster families.

“I am constantly amazed by all that foster parents do for children," said Catrina Roderick, foster parent coordinator in the Central Okanagan area.

“Most come to fostering with only their desire to help, but they develop the ability to meet the special needs that many foster children have. Okanagan Foster Parent Association and the Ministry of Children and Family Development work together to provide foster families with training, support, and reimbursement.”

Roderick says there is a specific need for foster parents with specialized skills, as some of the children needing homes have exceptional medical or behavioural needs that require experienced caregivers.

“Young adults, with training related to children, become excellent foster parents. Those who retire from jobs in education, child care or the medical field, also find fostering is a good way to use their experience in a way that meets their new life style,” said Roderick.

She adds that while children come into foster care for many different reasons, they all need a safe and loving home.

“Most children stay only for a short time, while others may stay for years, or move on to adoption,” said Roderick.

“Some children need respite care: a surrogate aunt or uncle who will care for them for a weekend or two every month.”

Foster parents can be any age, be single or married, have their own children, have no children or have grown children.

They care for children of all ages, from birth to 18 years old.

“There is need for foster parents who will care for one child, as well as for foster parents who have room for family groups of three or more.”

Those interested in becoming foster parents are invited to learn more about the responsibilities and rewards of fostering at an “Introduction to Fostering” class on May 16 from 6 to 8 p.m. at 401-1726 Dolphin Avenue, Kelowna.

For more information, and to register for the class, please contact Roderick via email at [email protected].