Battling the ongoing decline in foster carer numbers, MacKillop Family Services is urging the community to better understand the role of foster carers and the support that’s available.
Carlton AFLW coach Matt Buck and wife Rachael, a school principal, have been carers with MacKillop for eight years and are happy to lend their voices to the call for carers.
With three children of their own, the Geelong-based couple say foster care has had a positive impact on all the family.
“Being able to give children the security of a loving, safe and happy environment is the most rewarding feeling,” Ms Buck said. “Providing support to kids when they need it most and watching them relax and grow in trust is very special.
“Our boys are growing up with empathy. They understand that children have different experiences in life, and I’m proud about how good they are at sharing and being inclusive.”
MacKillop Family Services CEO Robyn Miller says many people in the community don’t realise they could make a difference to a vulnerable child’s life.
“Factors such as economic pressures or changing demography, where people have children later in life, are impacting the available pool of carers,” Dr Miller said.
“We know that the best place for children is in loving family homes, it’s getting increasingly difficult to provide those homes. This is a challenge across the sector.
“As a sector, we are looking at all the ways we can support carers to sustain those already opening their homes, and encourage others to do the same.
“Listening to our existing carers and providing the support they need is critical to ensuring they can continue to provide the loving care that is so desperately needed.”
Dr Miller added that the foster care community continually needs new carers coming onboard, and that all members of the community and family structures are encouraged to apply.
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Foster carers get behind the Call Out for Carers during Foster Care Week (MacKillop Family Services)
