Foster Families Honoured For Dedication

Foster Family Week, Oct. 18-24, recognizes and honours the dedication and support Nova Scotia's foster families give to children, their families and their communities.

Special events such as banquets, recognition nights and receptions will be held across the province to thank foster families for their efforts.

"Opening your heart and home to a foster child takes an incredible amount of love and understanding," said Francene Cosman, Minister of Community Services. "These families deserve thanks and recognition for the support and hope they offer these children."

Last year, there were more than 1,842 children in foster care and about 605 approved foster homes in the province.

"Hundreds of foster children are being given the support of a loving home just when they need it the most because of the dedication of these families," said Susan Drysdale, manager of adoption and foster care at the Department of Community Services. "But there are many more children in our province who need loving homes."

Before receiving a child, all new foster parents take a six-to-eight-week orientation program and mandatory training. Additional opportunities for training may be provided to meet a particular child's special needs.

Foster parents receive financial assistance monthly from the Department of Community Services. The money helps cover the cost of board, clothing and other expenses. Foster families caring for a child with special needs may be eligible for additional funding.

A 24-hour toll-free number, 1-800-565-1884, to the Federation of Foster Family Associations in Nova Scotia provides additional information about foster parenting.