Foster a Child … Change a Life

Head of the Child Development Agency (CDA), Rosalee Gage-Grey, has thanked Jamaicans who have taken on the role of foster parent despite the low stipend they receive from the Government.

"Indeed, the foster-care programme has been a lifeline to the thousands of children who have benefited from the system over the years, as well as the nearly 900 children who are currently in the programme.

"By changing one life, foster parents are in essence creating a ripple effect that is changing many more lives all across the nation and the world," said Gage-Grey in a presentation to mark Foster Care Week, which was celebrated February

8-14.

"Children in loving foster families have been known to do better in all areas of their lives - in their overall education, health and emotional, spiritual and social well-being.

"Children who have benefited from the foster-care system can be found in all spheres of life; foster children are teachers, lawyers, doctors, trades persons and business persons, among others," added Gage-Grey.

She argued that by making solid investments in the lives of these children, foster parents have played a key role in impacting the wider community, Jamaica and the world.

"Those who participate in the national foster-care programme as parents are life-changers, giving children a path to positive social upliftment and improved life prospects.

"I thank foster parents from all across Jamaica for your dedication. Let us continue to work together. Together, we will not only strengthen our children today, but will reap dividends for many years to come."