NEXT time you you’re enjoying a caffeine break – why not consider being a foster carer.
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That is the message MacKillop Family Services are hoping Warrnambool coffee-drinkers will embrace this month when they make an urgent plea for carers.
The charitable organisation has teamed up with Warrnambool’s Rough Diamond and Cafe Lava to release branded coffee cups during June.
The paper cups emblazoned with the MacKillop emblem are aimed at promoting the need for more carers.
“More foster carers are needed in Warrnambool to support the growing number of children entering care,” said Warrnambool MacKillop Family Services’ Tania Ferris.
“By providing children in care with stability, support and care you can transform the life of a young person.”
Ms Ferris said one in 33 Australian children received child protection services in 2015-16 with numbers increasing each year.
“Children and young people of all ages may need foster care at some point in their lives,” she said.
“Some for one night and others long-term.”
Ms Ferris said what mattered most was the caring aspect.
“Foster carers are everyday people in our community who have space in their heart and their home to support children and young people in care,” she said.
“Carers can rent or own their own home, study, work or be home full-time, and be married, in a relationship or single. It doesn’t matter.”
“As long as you care about children and young people, and can provide a safe and supportive environment, we will train and support you to be a foster carer.”
MacKillop offers foster care, youth residential homes, programs for people with a disability, homelessness and education support in Warrnambool and surrounding areas.
”When you become a foster carer you are able to specify the length and type of care you provide,” said Ms Ferris
“Support is then available from MacKillop 24-hours-a-day.”