Foster Care Week: There Is Still a Great Need for New Foster Families

There are still children waiting for a foster family—a place where they can grow up in as home-like an environment as possible, preferably close to school, friends, and family. That’s why new foster parents are desperately needed. Every month, Combinatie Jeugdzorg organizes an information session. The next ones will be held on Monday, November 2, in Maarheeze, and on Thursday, November 5, in Geldrop. Anyone interested can learn more about what they can do for a child as a foster parent.

A suitable place, preferably nearby

Foster Care Week runs from October 28 through November 4. During this week, attention is drawn nationwide to the importance of foster care and the shortage of foster parents.

When circumstances prevent children from living with their own parents—even temporarily—a foster family can offer a welcome solution. This allows them to grow up in a family setting, with the warmth, structure, and security they need—preferably in their familiar surroundings. But not every foster family is a good fit for every child. That is why we need a greater variety of foster families, so that children are more likely to be able to stay close to home.

More possibilities than many people realize

Foster care comes in various forms. A child does not always have to live with a foster family seven days a week. Sometimes it involves care on weekends or during school breaks. You also don’t have to be at home full-time or have children of your own to become a foster parent.

During the information session, a foster care counselor from Combinatie Jeugdzorg will discuss the different types of foster care and what is expected of foster parents. An experienced foster parent will also share personal experiences, and there will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions.

Information Evening in Maarheeze and Geldrop

  • Monday, November 2, 7:30–9:30 p.m. – De Smelt, Maarheeze
  • Thursday, November 5, 7:30–9:30 p.m. – Heerenhuys23, Geldrop

You can request a foster care information packet or register for an information session atwww.combinatiejeugdzorg.nl/pleegzorg/pleegouder-worden.