Children, Seniors and Social Development
November 21, 2017
The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:
Foster Families Celebrated for their Support and Dedication
Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House to recognize the tremendous contributions foster families make to the well-being of children and youth in our province.
Recently, our province celebrated Foster Families Week to show our appreciation for foster families, and acknowledge the great work of social workers and the Foster Families Association.
Mr. Speaker, foster families willingly open their hearts and homes to children and youth during a time in their lives when they need it most. Living and thriving in a supportive family environment is so important for a child – it is comfort, stability and love.
There are approximately 605 foster families located throughout Newfoundland and Labrador that are dedicated to helping children and youth by providing safe and nurturing homes.
Author and award-winning youth speaker, Josh Shipp said, “Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.” Children flourish when they have caring and reliable foster parents to help support and guide them, and help them maintain family connections.
Mr. Speaker, being a foster parent is a rewarding experience and has many positive aspects, not only for the children in their care, but also for the family itself. To help us meet the need for new foster families, I encourage anyone who is interested in becoming a foster parent to please reach out to our department or the Foster Families Association.
Thank you.
2017 11 21 1:55 p.m.