Geelong’s Libbie Arnott never intended to become a foster carer, but today she provides a loving and nurturing environment for four children aged 10 and under.
Ms Arnott said there was no lightbulb moment when she knew she would be a foster carer.
“I was working in the youth sector, and there were a couple of things that happened that sent me on this journey,” she said.
“It can be a challenge, often not with young people but their situation. But it’s so rewarding, and the support is incredible; I’m very thankful for that.”
Facing a national crisis, MacKillop Family Services has launched the national Foster a Brighter Future campaign to encourage Australians to become foster carers.
With more than 46,000 children currently living in out-of-home care and only 9000 foster carer households, the need has never been greater.
MacKillop’s foster carer recruitment lead for Victoria Michael Hoffman said the campaign was about making space for authentic conversations about the reality of being a foster carer.
“We know people are curious, but unsure,” he said.
“These coffee catch ups are a chance to ask questions, hear from our team and experienced carers, and understand how life-changing fostering can be, not just for the child, but for the carer too.
“There is a need for carers in every single region in Australia and it’s really important that kids are kept in an environment that they are familiar with.
“To do that, we need carers in all metro and regional areas, which is why we are on the ground to talk to local communities.”
Visit mackillop.org.au/foster for more information.
