Islanders are celebrating National Foster Family Week, Sunday, October 16 to Saturday, October 22.
Director of Child Protection Wendy McCourt says National Foster Family Week is an opportunity to recognize the invaluable service foster families provide to Island children and youth in need, and she is encouraging Islanders to learn more about becoming a foster family.
“Fostering is a rewarding experience and an opportunity to support your community,” said McCourt. “Foster families make a significant difference by opening their homes and their hearts to vulnerable children and families.”
Prince Edward Island’s Foster Care Program provides daily care for children and youth under the custody and guardianship of the Director of Child Protection. The goal of the Foster Care Program is to provide a safe, caring and supportive home to these children and youth. Foster care is a critical component of Child Protection Services, and the Prince Edward Island Federation of Foster Families provides support and training to foster families.
“I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of the foster care providers across the Island for the excellent work they do for children who very much need their care,” said Wayne MacFarlane, president of the PEI Federation of Foster Families. “The PEI Federation of Foster Families is honoured to work with so many caring Islanders and we look forward to working with even more families in the coming year.”
For more information about becoming a foster family in Prince Edward Island, please visit the Department of Community Services, Seniors and Labour website at www.gov.pe.ca/sss. To speak with someone directly, please contact Child Protection Services at 368-5330 or 888-8100.