On behalf of the Central Alberta Child and Family Services Authority Board, we would like to celebrate the foster parents and caregivers who provide care to children and youth in Central Alberta.

Each year we take some time in October to acknowledge the work of foster parents and the contributions they make to support children and youth. National Foster Family Week provides an opportunity to celebrate the hundreds of Alberta foster families who willingly embrace challenges and support the most vulnerable children and youth to reach their full potential in life.

We hold foster parents in high regard and would like to share a couple of their comments with you to demonstrate why. Please read these over and think about the foster parents you know and the untold stories. When you read these statements from foster parents, remember to thank Central Alberta’s foster parents for their dedication and commitment to children and youth in care.

“We have fostered many children over the years but this child touched our hearts to make a commitment to adopt. We couldn’t understand how this child could be all alone with no one asking for a visit with child. No child has to face the world the world all alone. We are happy to say that this child is no longer alone, we are now family.”

“Our foster youth may have some challenges requiring him to receive additional supports in school and at his part-time job but our teenager has shown he is capable of so much more. We are proud to say that this past year, he has successfully obtained his driver’s license, purchased a vehicle with his own savings account and pays for his own car insurance. When he received a traffic ticket from running the red light he paid it promptly. We let him know how proud we are of him and his accomplishments.”

These foster families have significantly impacted the lives of the children in their care. They are truly amazing and make a difference in Central Alberta communities.

For these and the hundreds of ways they help children and youth, we would like to thank foster parents during National Foster Family Week.

Across the country, caregivers are helping young people in foster care build bright futures by serving as foster parents, respite caregivers, kinship caregivers, adoptive parents and private guardians.

More help is needed. If you’re interested in more information about being a caregiver, call toll free 310-0000, then 403-755-6104 and ask to speak to the Caregiver Recruiter and gather more information. Information is also available online at http://fostercarealberta.ca/.

Please join us in recognizing foster parents and caregivers in Central Alberta communities. We extend our heartfelt thanks.

Christine Moore

Jason Sansregret

Central Alberta Child and Family Services Authority board co-chairs