Effective April 1, 2026, foster, kinship and permanency caregivers received a two per cent rate increase to help cover day-to-day necessities like food, clothing and personal care. Caregiver referral incentives will be tripled to $1,500, starting June 16. Eligibility for the Refer-A-Foster Caregiver program is being expanded beyond current and former foster caregivers to include kinship and permanency caregivers, as well as non-profit organizations such as cultural associations, faith-based and community groups.
“I am grateful to the compassionate and dedicated caregivers across Alberta who open their homes and hearts to children and youth when they need them the most. By strengthening the caregiver program, we are helping ensure more children and youth have access to the stable, loving homes they deserve. I hope that more Albertans will consider becoming caregivers.”
Alberta is also strengthening support for prospective caregivers to recognize their commitment to the process required to become licensed caregivers. Applicants will receive $1,500 in two instalments: $450 after completing pre-service training and $1,050 once they are fully licensed.
“Alberta Foster and Kinship Association appreciates the Government of Alberta's continued recognition of the important role foster and kinship caregivers play in supporting children and youth. This increase will help manage rising costs and support caregivers to continue to provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and youth who cannot remain at home with their families.”
Alberta is launching a new online portal to give caregivers secure access to information and services including the ability to submit claims online, informed by feedback gathered during the 2024 roundtable discussions with kinship and foster caregivers.
Budget 2026 focuses on what matters, makes disciplined choices and takes decisive action. This includes an increase to Children and Family Services of more than five per cent from Budget 2025 – to make sure children are safe and those fleeing violence are supported.
Quick facts
Alberta currently has:
- 1,476 licensed foster caregiver homes
- 2,126 approved kinship care providers
- about 4,500 families providing permanent homes through adoption or private guardianship
Related information
- Caregivers – Just Like You
- Video: Become a caregiver
- Support for foster and kinship caregivers
- Become a foster caregiver
- Become a kinship caregiver
- Supports for Permanency
Related news
- Strengthening supports for foster and kinship caregivers (March 17, 2025)
- Foster and Kinship Caregiver Month (Oct. 1, 2025)