Foster parent says systemic changes needed to recruit more families

Afoster parent is calling for changes to Newfoundland and Labrador'sfoster-care system to benefit children and the families opening their doors to them.

Sheila Cooper, who lives in North West River and currently does not have any foster children in her care, says a number of aspects of the systemcould be changed to improve conditions for the 580 foster families in the province.

Her suggestions come during National Foster Families Month.

Cooper says the province needs to take a look atgaps in the system that are costing families money out of their own pockets.

"Every year the kid is allowed to get a new bike, but you're only allowed one bed for that child for the duration of their stay at your house, even if they're wetting the bed. Doesn't matter. That's how it is," Cooper said.

Cooper said it's one example of how a child's needs should be individualized, similar to how the amount for food each month is individualized.

As well, Cooper said there needs to be an increase in the amount for food when travelling for a foster child's medical appointments and there should be payments to offset costs if a foster child goes on holiday with their foster family.

"Things like that, that really is not included in with foster parenting which really should be because it shouldn't have to cost me to take care of other people's children," Cooper said.

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The Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development declined an interview on Cooper's concerns but sent a statement thatsaid foster parents receive a number of financial supports on behalf of each child or youth placed in their home.

The province saidfamilies in Labrador receive between $800 to $1,100 each month to help with the care of the foster child, depending on their location and the age of the child. The province says there are additional financial benefits as well and costs not covered by the basic rate may be approved on an individual basis.

Any foster parent experiencing issues with services or supports shouldcontact the staff or manager in their region, says the provincial government.

Cooper said she would also like to see foster parents receive some benefits such as medical prescription cards so if a foster parent is a stay-at-home parent, they can take care of their own medical needs as well.

"There are some big changes that need to be made, and all of these little things are big changes."

If the province wants to increase the number of people opening their homes, said Cooper, they should consider these changes.

"Like anything in the whole world, I think that if you treat your foster parents right, you will get more foster parents."

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