Long-serving foster carers and their families who have given years of their lives to help children and young people in care were celebrated a gathering hosted by Tusla at The Rose Hotel in Tralee.
The lunch was held to thank foster carers and supported lodgings providers across the county for the invaluable care they provide daily to support children and young people but also to provide them with the opportunity to meet and connect with other carers.
Several local services and companies donated spot prizes for a raffle to show their support for the important work foster carers do in the community.
Tusla said fostering is key to ensuring that children who need alternative care are cared for in a safe, secure and loving home environment.
Margaret Enright, principal social worker with Tusla, said the service relies on families and individuals in our community who are willing to share their homes and lives with children and young people whose parents are unable to care for them and to work with a range of professionals to support the children in their care.
There are currently 163 children in foster care in Kerry and 84 families who foster.
“The event was about thanking foster families for their daily commitment to providing a secure, inclusive and safe family environment to children who require it within the county,” Ms Enright said.
“It was wonderful to see the care, love and support provided to our children in care in action today whilst families enjoyed lunch, face painting, balloon modelling and of course a visit from Santa himself. We wish all our foster families and those in their care the very best in 2024,” she added
Tusla holds regular online information sessions for anyone interested in becoming a foster carer. To register or to find out more information about fostering, visit fostering.ie, call freephone 1800-226-771 or email tusla.fostering@tusla.ie.
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