This Foster and Kinship Care Week, Upper Murray Family Care (UMFC) is inviting the community to come together to celebrate, learn, and connect - and to hear directly from the everyday heroes making a life-changing difference in the lives of children and young people: foster and kinship carers.
The number of children and young people needing foster care placements in our local area continues to exceed the number of available carers.
UMFC currently supports around 73 foster care households, but on some weeks, only between one and five of these households are available to take in children entering care.
With approximately 40 children and young people requiring placements each month in our local area, the demand for foster carers remains urgent and ongoing.
UMFC is reaching out in new and engaging ways to share information, answer questions, and break down the myths surrounding foster care.
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Kinship carers are also being celebrated by UMFC during this week given their strong commitment to care for children or young people who they know or are related to.
To spread information on fostering UMFC is holding a relaxed Family Fun Day in Wangaratta on 3 October.
With games, face painting, music, and a barbecue lunch, it’s a chance for families to enjoy time together while learning more about UMFC’s services - including how to get involved in foster care.
Staff will be on hand to chat informally and answer questions.
On the same date a Q&A session with a local foster carer will be held at UMFC’s Wodonga office, offering a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who’s opened their home to children in need.
Local carer Brett Nance reflected on the reasons he likes being a foster carer.
"It’s the satisfaction you get out of it, knowing that one little thing you do can change that kid’s life forever," he said.
UMFC is also reaching out beyond in-person events, offering online information sessions for those who prefer to learn from home.
These sessions are free, informal, and open to anyone curious about fostering - no pressure, just information.
The next session will be on 25 September from 7pm to 8pm.
Throughout Foster Care Week, UMFC hopes to challenge some of the myths that often prevent people from considering foster care:
• You don’t need to be married, partnered or own your own home - carers come from all walks of life.
• Parenting experience isn’t required - ongoing support and training is provided.
• Saying goodbye is hard, but knowing you’ve made a difference is powerful.
• There are many types of care - from emergency and respite to short- and long-term placements.
For more information, visit www.umfc.com.au/become-a-carer, email fostercareenquiries@umfc.com.au or call UMFC on (02) 6055 8000.
