Available Foster Homes in Ontario have Declined 33 Per Cent Since the Pandemic
Niagara, Ont. – Amidst a steady decline in foster care placement availability, the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS) is releasing the ‘There to Care’ Campaign. With the need for foster caregivers now greater than ever, the initiative aims to underscore the vital role of foster caregivers, emphasizing their profound impact on children, youth, families, and communities. By dispelling misconceptions and rallying community support, the campaign seeks to address the critical shortage of foster homes across Ontario.
Helping families stay strong and successful is at the heart of FACS Niagara’s work. More than 95 per cent of the children referred to FACS receive services and supports in their own homes. In instances where families require additional support and assistance, foster parents help by providing temporary care so children continue to thrive and grow in supportive, safe environments. With the decline of active foster homes since the pandemic, the demand for these compassionate individuals and families has never been greater.
“We are pleased to support the OACAS in its There to Care Campaign there is a great need for foster families across Ontario,” says Anna Bozza, CEO, FACS Niagara. “We hope this will encourage individuals, couples, and families in Niagara to take the first step in becoming a foster parent. Opening your home to children and youth means you’re not only changing their lives, but also your own.”
It is also important for FACS Niagara to have a community of foster families that are as diverse as the children and youth it serves. This includes race, ethnicity, language, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. In addition, there is an urgent need for placements supporting sibling groups, older children and youth, infants and those with complex needs.
“Fostering is about more than the children and youth you provide a temporary home to. It’s also about facilitating connections and reunification with families and communities, and ensuring children and youth stay connected to their culture and identity. It’s about providing real, tangible support to your community,” says Solomon Owoo, OACAS Interim CEO.
Community members interested in becoming foster parents can call FACS Niagara at 905-937-7731 ext. 3802 or visit our website at www.facsniagara.on.ca. There is no obligation to call, and our team is happy to answer any questions you may have about this rewarding opportunity.
To learn more about the There to Care Campaign, please visit www.theretocare.ca.
About FACS Niagara: Family and Children’s Services has been making a positive difference in the lives of children, youth, and families in Niagara for more than a century. As a multiservice agency providing child welfare services, fostering and adoption, counselling, and childcare, the team at FACS Niagara works to keep children safe and families strong.
About the OACAS: The Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies (OACAS) is a provincial membership organization representing 47 of Ontario’s 50 mandated children’s aid societies and Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agencies, as well as 2 pre-mandated Indigenous Child and Family Well-Being Agencies. It supports members by providing practice tools, educational opportunities, and training, as well as communication and advocacy support to help achieve improved, equitable outcomes for children, youth, and families. Learn more at oacas.org.