Are you ready to make a lasting impact on a young life?
Partner with Berry Street and join its dedicated team committed to nurturing and empowering children and young people on their unique journeys.
As a Berry Street foster carer, you’ll support local children and young people at a crucial moment in their lives.
As one of Victoria’s largest providers of out-of-home care, Berry Street provides children and young people who have experienced trauma with a safe and secure place to live.
For more than 145 years, it has supported children and young people in Victoria at whatever point in their journey they need help.
Every year, more than 11,000 Victorian children and young people are unable to live safely with their families and enter the care system, including foster care.
This is where foster carers play a crucial role by providing vital support and a safe home for these children.
Unfortunately, a decline in foster carer numbers has plunged the care system into crisis.
“More children are coming into our care now than we can find safe homes for; it’s really a devastating situation,” acting Berry Street CEO Jenny McNaughton said.
“Every act of care, whether it’s offering respite care once a month or providing emergency, short-term, or long-term care, plays a crucial role in providing stability and support for children and young people, contributing to their overall wellbeing and development.”
Berry Street’s home-based care senior manager, Holly Ames, said: “Childhood is a journey, but not every child has the same opportunities, which is why we need foster carers to play an empowering role in a child or young person’s life.”
“We are encouraging residents across the local area to start their foster care journey – you never know where it will take you.
“The team and I will be there to support you every step of the way, as you learn and grow in your new caring role.”
Berry Street welcomes foster carers from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and experiences.
Berry Street is appealing to individuals who can step forward to support a local child or young person in their community.
If you are over 21 years old and have a spare bedroom for a child, you can apply to be a foster carer at www.berrystreet.org.au/fostercare.
