The call has sounded for more people to care for kids in need around Melton.
More than 100 Melton foster children have been turned away from out-of-home care services in the past year because of a shortage of carers, according to Westcare Foster Care.
The service, provided by The Salvation Army, is looking to recruit more accredited carers through its community event on September 9 at Melton’s amphitheatre.
The event will be part of Foster Care Week, which runs between September 10-16, and raises awareness about foster care and recognises the contribution made by carers nationwide.
Westcare team leader Sam Notaro (pictured) said the service placed 134 children with accredited foster carers in 2016. But it also had to turn 122 children away because there were not enough carers for their specific needs.
“Victoria has an acute shortage of foster carers available to take care of the increasing number of children and young people unable to live with their own families,” Mr Notaro said.
“As you can imagine, Westcare is always keen to have new foster carers become a part of our little family.
“Foster Care Week is the perfect opportunity for us to meet new foster carers and to share information about the care we and our foster carers provide to babies, children and young people in need.”
Residents can enjoy a barbecue in the town centre with jumping castles and a petting zoo.
This year’s theme for Foster Care Week is Shine A Light, in line with the National Foster and Kinship Care Conference being held in Melbourne.
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