With a staggering number of children on the Central Coast living in out-of-home care, My Forever Family NSW is looking for families prepared to open their homes to children in need.
Barbara Wallisch of Toukely has fostered more than 50 children over the past 27 years and has adopted two.
“I have no natural children, having suffered from fertility issues,” she said.
“I was on IVF for many years but eventually decided to foster and adopt.”
Wallish, who has been widowed for the past four years, said she had done some crisis and respite care but had been mostly involved with short and long-term fostering.
“Finding a child who has been traumatised starting to trust you and improve at school, make friends and start to live a more normal life is very rewarding,” she said.
“The experience with each child depends on their age.”
Wallisch, who currently has several children in care, said she keeps in touch with some of her former foster children.
Department of Communities and Justice NSW data for 2020 shows that 13 children and young people per 1,000 are living in out of home care on the Central Coast District – well above the state average of 9 in 1,000.
With 996 children and young people in in care in the region at June 30, 2021, there is a lressing need for more homes as the state faces a critical shortage of carers.
Renée Carter is CEO of Adopt Change, which operates the My Forever Family NSW program.
“The sad reality is, there are currently not enough carer homes for children who are unable to live with their family,” she said.
“We are encouraging people to consider becoming a carer and to reach out to find out more.
“Becoming a carer means opening your homes and lives to provide the everyday experiences of childhood in a safe and stable environment.
“Whilst we want these children and young people to find stability, no matter how long they stay with you, you can make a profound difference in their life, becoming part of their extended family and support network.
“As well as being able to provide a home in this way, the beautiful flow-on effect is that you get to know some amazing young humans and watch them grow into who they are meant to be.
“Playing a part in nurturing them through that is a life-changing experience.”
There are all types carer homes needed – including kinship and foster care (part-time, emergency and long-term), guardianship and adoption, which suit individual or family circumstances.
Carers have the opportunity to care for children so that they can thrive and continue to form strong bonds with their families and community, providing unique support that can last a lifetime.
Find out more about becoming a carer for kids and My Forever Family NSW at www.myforeverfamily.org.au/.
Terry Collins