If you are looking for a way to make a real difference in the life of a child, consider becoming a foster parent.
When you provide a secure and caring home to a local child or youth, you are giving them the loving guidance, security and sense of value they need to truly thrive. And, in return, you are rewarded with lifelong memories and profound personal satisfaction.
Who can foster?
Foster parents come from a variety of backgrounds and can be single, living common-law, married, and with or without children of their own. They range in age and represent diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. The Children’s Aid Society of Algoma values diversity and inclusion, and respects the dignity, beliefs, and ideas of individuals. All adults interested in fostering are welcome and encouraged to apply!
What is my role as a foster parent?
Foster parents play a significant role in supporting the reintegration of children and youth back to their families. Algoma CAS is committed to protecting children and promoting their well-being. This is done by working collaboratively with children, their families, and communities. Whenever possible, this work is done in the home, so the child or youth is able to remain with their family.
In situations where the child is unable to safely remain in their own home, or have no parent or guardian available, they are placed in a safe and caring environment. This could be through Kinship, which places children with members of their extended family or family friends, or with a foster family that provides safe, family-based care until children return to their parents.
How does Algoma CAS support children and youth in foster care?
Once a child has been placed in kinship or foster care, the Children’s Aid Society of Algoma staff continue to work closely with them to provide ongoing support. The safety and wellbeing of children and youth are at the centre of CAS work, and resources are available to help ensure the caregiving experience continues to be a positive one for the child, and their foster family:
Resources for Children and Youth: Children’s Aid Society of Algoma is committed to providing ongoing support to children and youth in care. In addition to staff support, there is a range of supports and services available for children and youth. These range from help navigating separation and divorce, to accessing justice services, to the Continued Care & Support for Youth (CCSY) program for young people who have been in the care of a Children’s Aid Society, or who are leaving care.
Youth-In-Care Bursary Fund: Post-secondary education is a costly endeavor for anyone and can be an extra burden to youth in care. By donating to the Youth-In-Care Bursary Fund, you are helping the Children’s Aid Society of Algoma grant annual bursaries to assist youth in care with the financial burdens of securing a higher education, leading to stable employment and a brighter future. Each donation helps create educational opportunities to the youth in our community.
Waiting for the right time to become a Foster Parent? The time is NOW.
Foster families are urgently needed in our region, and there are local children and youth waiting to be paired with loving families.
Contact Children’s Aid Society of Algoma at 705-949-0162 extension 310, or you can email [email protected] to learn more about the benefits of fostering a local child and the resources to help you along your caregiver journey.