There are many children and young people in Port Stephens who, through no fault of their own, are unable to live with their family. Amplifying this dire situation is the shortage of foster carers, leaving these vulnerable young people with no certainty about their future.
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The Director of CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning, Gary Christensen, is urging the Port Stephens community to help.
"There is an overwhelming shortage of foster carers in Port Stephens, the situation is now at crisis point. We're asking anyone who thinks they can provide these children with a safe and secure home-life to contact us," Mr Christensen said.
"Whether you can only provide care for a few days at a time, or can provide a child or young person with a home for life, we would love to hear from you," he said.
Mark and Jo Lewis, were in their forties with 6 children living at home, the youngest of whom was only seven when they became foster carers. They have been a foster family for 12 years, providing a loving home for a total 9 children.
"CatholicCare provided all the training and support we have ever needed. We've only had to ask for help, and one of their team has arrived at our house to offer care and guidance," she said.
"Some days are harder than others but even the smallest amount of progress a child makes provides all the reassurance we need to know what we're doing is worth it," Ms Lewis said.
If you can help please visit www.catholiccare.org.au.
