The Department of Child and Family Services is appealing to the community to join their vibrant pool of families who take care of children of all ages.
A Department spokesperson said, “On Friday, September 30th, between 11 am and 2 pm in the Lower Level of the Washington Mall, we will be facilitating a ‘Foster Parent Recruitment Table.’”
“We ask that those who are willing to open their hearts and homes to come forward. We also appeal that those with a background in teaching, counseling, coaching, nursing, para-education, and youth programmes consider offering their assistance.”
“The Department of Child and Family Services currently has 65 children in foster care, ranging in ages from birth to 18. We are also mandated to respond to new referrals as they arise, wherein children may be deemed to need care. Therefore, we need newly approved foster families willing to be on standby to open their homes to children.”
The spokesperson added, “Foster Care provides a temporary, loving, and nurturing family to children when they are not able to live with their parents. The importance of having community support for our young people is critical.”
The Minister of Social Development and Seniors, the Hon. Tinee Furbert, JP, MP, shared, “I am pleased to raise awareness with the Department of Child and Family Services as they appeal to the Bermuda public for support with our foster care system.”
“The Department has been extremely fortunate with the foster parents they have had thus far, and on behalf of the Government, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to those who have opened their homes and hearts to foster a child.”
“Bermuda, it truly takes a village, and we hope you will be willing to help us build ours.”
For more information on becoming a foster parent, you can stop by the Foster Parent Recruitment Table on September 30th, call 294-5871, or email Selena Simons at smsimons@gov.bm