Irish Foster Care Association launches Fostering Awareness Week 2024

Today marks the launch of Fostering Awareness Week, the Irish Foster Care Association's annual campaign to raise awareness and understanding of foster care in Ireland.  

This year's Fostering Awareness Week takes place from today to March 08. 

This year's theme is 'Growing Hope, Fostering the Future' and highlights the hugely impactful and positive role a foster care placement can have in a child or young person's life.

Irish Foster Care Association's is celebrating Fostering Awareness Week with tree planting ceremonies in Dublin, Cork, Cavan and Wexford, with the plan to continue in counties throughout Ireland to celebrate the deep roots of foster care in Ireland and recognition of its important and valued role in our communities.

Speaking at the Tree Planting Ceremony in St. Stephens Green, Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste said: "I am delighted to be here today celebrating foster care. I have had the honour of meeting many who have come through foster care, and I can honestly say that each and every one is extraordinary."

Speaking at the launch of Fostering Awareness Week, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman said: "It is imperative that we recognise the importance of fostering in providing loving and secure family environments to children in care, and this week will highlight the immeasurably positive impact this has on the lives of these children." 

Jacqui Smyth, National Lead for Foster Care, Tusla, commented that Tusla welcomes the opportunity to join in celebrating the foster care community, saying that fostering is "central to the Tusla fostering strategy." 

Róisín Clarke, CEO of the Irish Foster Care Association, said: "A foster carer can be like a 'circuit breaker' in the life of a child who is experiencing adversity, providing them with the opportunity to have a safe and nurturing environment, strengthening their roots to grow and develop - a sense of place, inclusion and connection with the community.  

"The importance of this unique relationship between the foster carer, the child and the community is an essential part of the support system that allows children to flourish and feel a sense of belonging. This year, during Fostering Awareness Week, we come together to celebrate foster care and the community of support that surrounds it," Róisín added. 

You can keep up to date on all the activities taking place during Fostering Awareness Week at www.ifca.ie.