Westmeadows resident Jackie Davis has played a significant role in the early lives of at least 100 children in the past 35 years.
And while every child she has cared for has touched her heart, Ms
Davis (pictured holding a three-month-old girl) also knows she has made a
difference to theirs.
“Every one of the kids has touched my heart,” she said. “I would
encourage anyone thinking about becoming a foster carer to take the
first step and pick up the phone.
“Don’t go in half-hearted… go in thinking: ‘I can make a difference in this child’s life’.”
At the moment, Ms Davis is caring for five-year-old twin boys and
their four-year-old sister as part of the MacKillop Family Services’
foster care program.
After the three siblings go to bed each night, she makes sure she
puts in a couple of hours of one-on-one time with a three-month-old girl
she is also fostering.
MacKillop chief executive Micaela Cronin said there was urgent need for more foster carers in the community.
Ms Cronin said there were 5678 children and young people in
out-of-home care around Victoria. The total has increased by 15 per cent
in the past five years.
“MacKillop Family Services provides all our foster carers with ongoing support, training and regular breaks,” she said.
“Foster carers are also entitled to financial reimbursements.”
» To find out more about becoming a foster carer, call 1300 791 677 or visit fostercarefortnight.com.au
