Wendel Abel
TODAY IN this country there are many children who find themselves in very difficult and challenging circumstances. They are in need of love, a home, a parent and a community that cares.
Who are some of these children who need foster care?
Children who have been emotionally, physically or sexually abused.
Children who are abandoned.
Children who need a loving and secure family.
Children with behavioural and emotional problems.
Children who have been separated from their parents as a result of divorce or death.
WHY SHOULD I BECOME A FOSTER PARENT?
Well, this is a question that we should all consider. Consider that we may be able to make a difference in the life of a child who is without parents, abandoned, living in abject poverty or crying out for love, attention and support.
DO FOSTER PARENTS RECEIVE SUPPORT FROM THE STATE?
Yes, the Government actually offers a monthly allowance toward the maintenance of each child who is in foster care. Support may also be provided to purchase items of clothing, school fees, books and for medical expenses. The assistance provided will never be enough. Do not see fostering as a means of earning additional income.
WHAT SPECIAL QUALIFICATION DO I NEED TO BECOME A FOSTER PARENT?
You should be a responsible adult who is capable and prepared to take on the responsibility of caring for a child who is not your own.
You should be in reasonable physical and emotional health to assume the responsibility of parenting.
You should be able to provide acceptable accommodation that is safe and secure for the upbringing of a child.
You should have the capacity to be able to deal with the range of behaviours that children who are being fostered may display. Note that not all children in foster care present challenges but many do as they go through the transition process.
You should be committed to treating your foster child with love, care, dignity and respect as you would treat any other child.
CHALLENGES
What are some of the challenges associated with children who are fostered?
Because of the many challenges that these children present, a child who is up for foster care may present a number of emotional and behavioural problems. This varies from child to child and depends on their particular circumstances. Many children who are taken into foster care are, however, well adjusted without any problems.
ARE YOU NOW CONSIDERING FOSTER PARENTING?
There are many persons who do not have children. Fostering a child gives you the opportunity of rearing a child and making a difference in the life of that child. If you have children and are able to take on the additional responsibility of caring for another child then consider foster parenting.
Are you alone, have your children moved out of the home? Are you experiencing 'the empty nest'? Then fostering a child may make a difference in your life.
Whatever your situation or circumstances, consider the option of fostering a child today. This is certainly one way in which you can provide opportunities for children, especially those living in challenging family situations or in a Children's Home. Fostering a child can be a gratifying experience and it is certainly one way to extend care, love and blessing to our community. Remember it takes a village to care! Consider fostering a child today.
For further information call 922 - 8857 or call the Child Development Agency. Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, University of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
