Avalon Specialized Foster Care, which has been operating since 1998, is always looking for people willing to become foster parents in Guelph and surrounding areas.
Their first foster home opened in 2009, and they now currently have five foster homes, three of which are in the Guelph area, and two near Ospringe. Avalon has four separate programs allowing them to serve a range of children, from ages five to 18 years old.
Children come from a variety of backgrounds and situations. Some have faced neglect and abuse while others may be struggling with a range of mental health issues.
Anyone interested in becoming a foster parent can do so in their own home or in an Avalon-owned home.
Financial support is provided to foster parents for either living situation.
Parents who foster out of their own home receive $60 to $80 a day per child, and those who decide to move into an Avalon home will receive $1,000 a month per child, along with all living expenses paid.
“To become a foster parent, you do not need any academic qualifications,” said Rob Holtam, foster care program manager.
“We’re looking for people who are genuinely committed to the kids, people who are willing to open their own homes and provide the structure and the routine that we all find necessary to be successful.”
Families may welcome children into their home on a temporary basis or may want to foster a child with the goal to adopt them.
Avalon is looking for:
– single adults or couples;
– young adults or older adults that are young at heart;
– families just beginning to raise their own children or families who have finished raising children;
– adults with special skills or special childcare training;
– same sex couples;
– home owners or renters; and/or
– stay at home adults or people who work outside of their home.
There are qualifications for becoming a foster parent, and anyone interested in learning more is encouraged to contact Rob Holtam at 519-780-3883, or rob.holtam@avalontreatmentprograms.ca.
