Children, Seniors and Social Development
October 17, 2016
Supporting Safe and Nurturing Homes
Provincial Government Celebrates Foster Families Week
The Provincial Government is recognizing National Foster Families Week 2016 from October 16 to 22. Foster parents, children and youth gathered yesterday in St. John’s with representatives of the Provincial Government and the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association to kick off the annual celebration.
“Our government recognizes the vital role that foster parents play in our province’s child protection system. They offer a safe and supportive environment that nurtures the health and development of children and youth in care, and we remain committed to supporting our province’s foster families. During Foster Families Week, I extend the warmest gratitude to all the families who have opened their homes and their hearts. I also want to acknowledge our close working relationship with the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association and the valuable work they do to strengthen the fostering experience.”
- The Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
There are approximately 575 foster families in Newfoundland and Labrador that provide safe and nurturing homes to children and youth as they deal with complex situations.
“Foster Families Week is a time to celebrate the diversity of families and recognize the contribution foster families make in our province. It is an opportunity to express thanks to those families who step up to help children and youth along their life journey. Foster families mend hurts, build relationships, support families and make this world a better place by opening their hearts and homes to children in care. The Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association expresses appreciation to all our foster families and asks others to consider becoming foster parents because the need is great.”
- Diane Molloy, Executive Director of the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association
To learn about how to become a foster parent, call toll-free 1-855-863-6111 or visit
www.fosterafuture.ca 
. Information is also available through the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association toll-free at 1-877-754-0218.
QUICK FACTS
- The Provincial Government is recognizing National Foster Families Week 2016 from October 16 to 22.
- Budget 2016 provides approximately $150 million towards programs and support for child protection.
- There are approximately 575 foster families in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- For information on becoming a foster parent, call toll-free 1-855-863-6111 or visit
www.fosterafuture.ca .
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Media contacts:
|
Melony O’Neill Director of Communications (Children and Youth) Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development 709-729-5148, 689-0928 melonyoneill@gov.nl.ca |
Diane Molloy Executive Director Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association 709-754-0213 dianemolloy@nfld.net |
2016 10 17 12:05 p.m.