Supporting foster and kinship caregivers across Alberta

When children need a safe place to call home, foster and kinship caregivers offer care, stability and support when it matters most. That care can change the course of a child and family’s life. It can mean having someone in their corner, a helping hand, listening ear and a support system during difficult times. Alberta’s government recognizes the important role foster and kinship caregivers play in providing stability, compassion and a safe place to belong for children and youth in government care.

This is why when I became Minister of Children and Family Services, I made it a priority to sit down and talk to caregivers to find out how we can improve our support to them. The feedback I received from caregivers is helping shape real improvements.

One example is launching a secure online portal giving caregivers easier access to information and enabling submission of claims online. A select group of caregivers tested the portal before launch and it is being rolled out in stages to make sure it works well and meets their needs.

Caregiving is incredibly meaningful, but it is no small task. It takes patience, commitment and heart. It also comes with real day-to-day costs, from groceries and clothing to personal care items and other everyday needs. That’s why Alberta’s government has provided new and expanded supports for caregivers, including a $3.1 million investment which led to two per cent rate increase for foster, kinship and Supports for Permanency caregivers. 

Many caregivers were inspired because someone they knew fostered. To encourage more Albertans to take that first step, Alberta’s government has expanded the Refer-a-Foster Caregiver program. Current caregivers and past foster caregivers in good standing are now eligible to receive $1,500 for each new foster caregiver referred through the program. For the first time ever, select non-profit organizations, including faith-based and community groups, are eligible for the program.

You can spread the word about caregiving through our Just Like You marketing page, which includes posters and a link to social media graphics. You can also subscribe to the Caregiver Connections e-newsletter on that page.

If you have ever thought about becoming a foster caregiver, support is available as you move through the process. Becoming fully licensed takes time and includes pre-service training, meetings and a home visit. To recognize that commitment, prospective caregivers who complete the application process and become fully licensed will receive $1,500 in two payments: $450 after completing pre-service training and $1,050 once they become fully licensed.

If you are a caregiver, thank you. The care you provide matters more than you may ever know. I want to share the story of Crystal Arcand, a foster caregiver, so you can see for yourself what a difference these supports can make:

If you are thinking about becoming a caregiver, you do not need to have all the answers before taking the first step. To learn more about becoming a caregiver or available supports, visit Alberta.ca/caregivers-just-like-you.