What Supports Are Available to Foster Caregivers?

Foster caregivers receive a variety of supports to help them care for children and youth who live in their home.

Foster caregivers are assigned a Foster Care Worker who works with them to develop a personalized plan for your ongoing learning, training, and support. We recognize the importance and benefits of ongoing training, and offer regular workshops and courses to enhance the knowledge and expand child-related skills for foster caregivers.

• Foster caregivers/families receive a daily, non-taxable reimbursement for children and youth living in their home to cover the cost of food, shelter, and other living expenses.
• Clothing and recreational allowances are provided; this may vary according to the age of the child/youth.
• Health and dental coverage is provided by Children’s Aid Society.
• Foster caregivers have access to relief/respite coverage.
• Access to therapeutic supports to assist in the care of the child/youth
• Access to supports with our community partners to assist in the care of the child/youth
• Foster caregivers have access to peer support through the Foster Parent Association which helps to connect them with other foster caregivers.
• The Foster Parent Association meets regularly and provides support and a network of foster families with mutual interests.
• Access to support from the Foster Parents Society of Ontario.
• Initial and ongoing educational opportunities are provided

Enhanced support

We have a partnership with Enterphase Child & Family Services to provide support to foster caregivers. The program assists foster caregivers in managing difficult situations, stabilizing a new placement, planning for independent living, and other situations as needed. If necessary, a worker will visit the home to provide support in a time of crisis.