By Bryan Eneas

Foster Families needed in Northeast Sask.

Sep 21, 2017 | 10:00 AM

A new public awareness campaign in northeast Saskatchewan hopes people will consider opening their doors to a foster child.

Saskatchewan Foster Family Association (SFFA) executive director Deb Davies said she can’t promise being a foster parent will be easy, but she knows from experience fostering is one of the most rewarding and meaningful things a person can do.

“I first became a foster parent 35 years ago and I have to say that the program has evolved into a highly supportive network to provide the best care for vulnerable children while their families are in crisis,” Davies said. “The one thing that hasn’t changed however, is that the program is based on individuals and families helping other families.”

Davies said the association’s initial awareness campaigns proved successful, but more needed to be done. From January of 2016 until Sept. 20 of this year, 77 new homes opened their doors to foster children, but the general trend shows numbers are on the decline. According to Davies, SFFA is now focusing on the northeast regions of the province, like Melfort, Nipawin, Humboldt, Creighton and Sandy Bay in the hopes of recruiting more foster parents.

For those who may be considering becoming foster parents, Davies recommended calling the SFFA offices to obtain an informational package. Once approved into the program, the SFFA will work with prospective families both in person and over the Internet to ensure they are properly prepared.

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SFFA is a community based organization which works directly with the ministry of Social Services to provide support for prospective foster parents. Together, the two organizations work to provide a safe, caring and respectful environment for foster children.

“If you’ve been looking for a way to really make a difference in the lives of children in need, becoming a foster parent is the best way to do that,” Social Services Minister Paul Merriman said. “It’s a phenomenal, life changing experience to welcome a vulnerable child into your home.”

Bryan.Eneas@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @BryanEneas