This release was issued under a previous government.
The third week of October is recognized in Canada as National Foster Family Week. Alberta recognizes this week as Foster and Kinship Caregiver Week to acknowledge the breadth of care to support vulnerable children in our province. Events celebrating Alberta’s caregivers will take place across the province Oct. 16-22.
“Our government is proud to support caregivers who offer safe, healthy and loving homes to children and youth in need. We recognize caregivers who go to great lengths to help children maintain their identity through connections to family, community and culture.These caregivers are key to supporting the well-being of Alberta’s children and helping families reunite. I thank them for the important role they play in our communities - helping children experience stability and belonging.”
In Alberta there are approximately 1,900 foster homes and 1,600 kinship homes where children are cared for by extended family or someone the child knows well. About 3,600 children live in foster care and 1,700 are in kinship care.
The Alberta government is always looking for more caregivers, especially caregivers with Indigenous backgrounds and those willing to care for older children or children with complex needs.
Foster and kinship caregivers receive training, financial compensation and support to help children maintain connections with their families, communities and cultures; transition to lifelong families or adulthood; and achieve success in school. Caregivers also support and mentor birth parents.
“Foster and kinship caregivers help children feel supported at home and connected to their community and culture. Our association commends their efforts and is committed to supporting them.”