Valoris for Children and Adults recently launched an urgent recruitment campaign for foster families, following a sharp decline over the past two years.
The region needs to double its current network of approximately 40 foster families to adequately meet demand.
Although the number of children in need remains relatively stable, local placement capacity has dropped by 45 per cent.
According to Beverly Reitsma, Director of Clinical Services at Valoris, this trend observed across Ontario can be partly explained by the cost of living and the fast pace of daily life.
«Families are already very busy and sometimes think they lack the time or resources to welcome an additional child,» she stated.
The shortage of local foster homes directly impacts local youth. When local placements are unavailable, some children must leave Prescott and Russell and deal with being uprooted from their academic, social, and cultural environments.
In addition, youth must sometimes move between multiple temporary placements due to the limited number of existing homes.
«Our shortage means that we call upon the same families to welcome multiple children, which eventually leads to burnout,» explained Reitsma.
Current needs are evenly distributed across age groups, including infants, school-aged children, and teenagers.
Valoris is using this campaign to emphasize that there is no typical profile required to become a foster home. Single individuals, couples, retirees, and families with or without children are all eligible to apply.
Financially and logistically, the organization provides financial assistance to cover additional expenses associated with the child’s needs, including childcare costs. Their professional guidance includes preparatory training, ongoing support from specialized caseworkers, and access to respite services for parents.
As Reitsma explains, family support is tailored to each individual situation.
“There is an entire team surrounding the family if their needs and the child’s needs call for it […] we truly adjust concrete professional support based on those needs,» she added.
Through this initiative, Valoris aims to recruit about 40 new homes. According to Reitsma, for many participating foster families, this commitment represents a transformative human experience.
Reitsma points out that “families continue to do this work of fostering because they see the palpable impact they have on the life of a very small person […] providing them with a safe environment, strong bonds, moments of joy, a family setting.”
The impact on both children and families extends well beyond their time in foster care. On the ground, Reitsma notes that even years after moving on, former foster youth maintain close ties with their foster families. They regularly reach out with updates, share milestones, or simply seek comfort during difficult times.
«The need is urgent and we cannot meet it alone. We are appealing to the generosity and solidarity of Prescott and Russell residents to help us find new foster families. Every new family has the power to change the course of a life. Some will choose to welcome a child into their home, while others will contribute by spreading the word or encouraging someone they know to look into it. Every gesture can make a real difference,» stated Reitsma.
Residents seeking information with no obligation can visit valorispr.ca or call 1-800-675-6168. Even without directly fostering, the public is encouraged to share the message to raise awareness about the urgency of the situation.
