Jewish Family Service Calgary works toward strengthening families in several different ways.  On occasion, Jewish children come into care and are placed in non-Jewish foster families.  In such situations, JFSC staff work closely with staff from the Child and Family Service Authority to ensure the cultural needs of the children are being met.  It would be preferable to have nurturing Jewish foster families who can provide quality care to children based on Jewish values. 

Foster care is temporary family-based care. Foster parents receive training, support, and financial compensation to care for children.  Foster parents need to work closely with social workers from Children’s Services to ensure the goals for the children and biological families are being met. 

Eligibility is quite broad – applicants must be 18 years old and an Alberta resident.  Foster parents can be married, single, divorced or widowed, a homeowner or renter but in a stable environment.  A thorough home study / assessment is done with all applicants including police and Children’s Services’ checks.

If you are interested in performing this mitzvah, or would like more information, please contact:

JFSC 403-287-3510 ext.231 or counselling@jfsc.org  or

Susan O’Keeffe, Foster Care Recruiter with Calgary and District Foster Parents Association at 403-297-5957, or sue@caring4kids.ca or visit their website www.caring4kids.ca.