SSI foster carers open their homes and hearts

Around 20 foster carers and children of Vietnamese background attended a special lunch event hosted by Hai Au Lang Nuong Restaurant in Canley Vale, in south-west Sydney. SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis attended the lunch to personally thank and acknowledge the dedication of the carers.

In the Hunter region, SSI joined other out-of-home care providers in organising a picnic for local carers and children at Speers Point Park.

More than 500 children and carers enjoyed traditional picnic fare as well as a sausage sizzle, and received toy giveaways and show bags. Activities such as hair braiding and a workshop on making beaded necklaces were held to show case the African culture of many of SSI’s clients in the region. These were very popular and there was even a queue.

SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis told the gathering in Canley Vale: “The Multicultural Foster Care Service is based on the belief that children and young people from non-English speaking backgrounds are strengthened through knowing about and having connections with their cultural heritage.

“I acknowledge your efforts in maintaining the cultural connection for your foster children through activities such as language classes, visiting places of worship and youth groups.

“As foster carers you help create a safer community. As foster carers you open your doors to children and young people who are complete strangers to you and your family, yet you welcome them into your home.

“And for the time they are with you, the children in your care become part of your family, and feel safe and loved.”

The Multicultural Foster Care Service is a provider of out-of-home care services specifically for children and young people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.