New Campaign Aims to Promote the Benefits of Foster Parenting

For Megan Burnside and Randy Campbell, foster parenting is not only about the positive impact they can have on a child’s life, but also about the meaningful ways that child can enrich their own. 

“Fostering has been a really rewarding experience. The kids are a joy to get to know, and we have loved having the opportunity to be a part of their lives. It was great to be able to start at first with a couple of weekends a month doing respite, before making the jump into a full-time commitment.”

— Megan Burnside

A new campaign from the province aims to attract new foster families and respite providers.

Launched today, Every Open Door Fosters Futures focuses not only on the positive impacts foster families can have on children in need, but also on the benefits to the family providing care.

“These children are in vulnerable, often difficult situations and in many cases, a foster family is the best possible care option. Foster parenting can do so much good for these children by providing a stable home environment, reliable and predictable care and support, and a strong feeling of safety and security, not to mention the learning and growth experienced by the foster family.”

— Minister of Social Development and Seniors Barb Ramsay

Right now, there are 86 foster families active on the Island. Of these, 51 are available to accept full-time placements. Approximately 70 children are living in full-time foster care, while approximately 40 children reside in 9 group homes located throughout the province. 

While foster homes and provincially run group homes each play an important role in supporting children in care, foster homes often offer a more personalized and family-like environment.

“We believe every child in Canada has a right to a safe and loving family, so we encourage all Islanders to consider fostering children. By doing so, you not only give these children an opportunity to experience a stable and nurturing household, but you get to experience the joy of knowing you’ve made a positive contribution to a young person’s life.”

— President of the PEI Foster Family Federation Mary Noye

Media contact:
Andrew Sprague
Department of Social Development and Seniors
asgsprague@gov.pe.ca