The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Brian Warr, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development:

Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Foster Families Month, which is held during the month of October.

Currently, 600 foster families throughout our province provide safe, nurturing homes for children and youth in care.

As the Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, I want to recognize the vital role that foster families play in helping to make children and youth in care feel protected and secure.

The role of being a foster parent is also important as foster families support the relationship of the children and youth they are caring for with their families. This allows for connections to be maintained and supports reunification when it is in the best interests of the child or youth.

Foster families are truly remarkable as their commitment and encouragement those in their care is truly inspiring.

From helping a child find their smile to joining the child’s parent for a doctor’s appointment, foster families are making a difference in so many lives.

Let me also acknowledge the Newfoundland and Labrador Foster Families Association’s staff and board members, as well as social workers and many others who are part of the fostering team.

I invite my colleagues in this Honourable House to join me in thanking foster families throughout Newfoundland and Labrador for sharing their compassion and dedication to the children and youth who need it most.

Thank you.