By BRIDGET SCOTT
THERE is a desperate need for careers of children raised in unfair circumstances, and two families from Lynbrook are proof that it can be done.
In light of National Foster Care Week, Oz Child has launched a new campaign ‘I have the right’ which aims to highlight the right that every child has to live in a safe and happy environment.
The campaign was introduced to remind people that not every child was born into fair circumstances and many children are restricted of their basic rights.
Lynbrook resident Debbie McDonald, along with husband Aaron, has been a foster carer with Ozchild for the past two years, and also has three children of her own.
Ms McDonald said that through her job as a nurse she was exposed first hand to the hardship some children are forced to deal with.
“I saw these children that had been abused and were ending up in foster care system,” she said.
Ms McDonald said she was helping threat one particular boy with a chronic illness that would end up in the foster caring system, and his story inspired her to do what she could to help.
“I always wondered what happened to him and thought that’s what I want to do one day,” she said.
She said she recognised that it isn’t all easy going but said it’s a great feeling to be involved in foster caring.
“It’s really rewarding to know, that even for a week, we have made a difference and provided a safe and loving environment for these kids,” Ms McDonald said.
She said that foster carers were vital for the community and was reassured by the back-up given within the system.
“There is so much support and always someone to help,” she said.
You can specify which placement best suits your situation, she said.
Another Lynbrook resident, Karen Mcintosh has been a foster carer for 19 years.
Ms Mcintosh said she had not heard of foster caring before reading about it, but has now had about 100 foster children come through her home over the years.
“I feel really privileged to be part of some of these kid’s lives,” she said.
Ms Mcintosh said she was disappointed to hear there were a shortage of foster carers in the area but said some people didn’t know the opportunity is available.
“Different people we talk to they aren’t aware of the need there is out there,” she said.
“People don’t know enough about foster care.”
Like Ms McDonald and her husband, Ms Mcintosh has fostered children with her own husband through Ozchild.
Ms McDonald said she wouldn’t have had it any other way.
“I couldn’t speak highly enough of them,” she said. “They have been fantastic.”
Anyone interested in becoming a foster carer can visit t www.fosterparenting.org.au for more information.
