For reasons outside of their control, they can no longer live in their regular home. They have no idea of what’s coming next, they just want to be loved and have a chance at success.

That child has done nothing wrong and is simply a victim of circumstance.

If you have space in your heart and home, even if it’s just for a weekend once a month, you have the power to change that child’s life.

This is exactly what encouraged Amy and her husband Scott to become foster carers with CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning.

For the last three years, they have been carers to five-year-old Ben*. The vibrant and adventurous soul has brought so much colour and love to their lives.

“I had always thought I would be able to love someone else’s child if I needed to and thought that if I was able to, I would foster or adopt,” Amy explained.

“When I started looking into adoption, I realised there was so much need in the foster care system – there are so many kids out there that need a home, it's truly heartbreaking.

“My husband and I feel very fortunate in this life and felt we had the room in our lives and our home to provide a family for a child that needed it.”

Although it was a scary decision, something they spoke about for years, Amy has no regrets and is so thankful they opened their home to Ben.

The “lively little firecracker” is the perfect addition to their family. With three boys, Amy and Scott are kept very busy but they wouldn’t change a thing.

“He has come so far since he has been in our care. It’s amazing to see the progress and his little personality develop.

“When I think about how far he has come I feel so proud. I am proud of him and I’m so proud of myself and my family for not giving up.”

It’s not been without its challenges though. Amy says one of the hardest parts of their journey has been working through trauma-related behaviours.

“All kids are different but unfortunately, a lot of children in care are struggling with the effect of their trauma and the way it impacts all areas of their lives, including their behaviour and the way they connect to others,” she said.

“There have been high highs and low lows and that rollercoaster can be exhausting but it is worth it.”

Any negatives are all outweighed by one thing though – Amy and Scott are changing Ben’s life.

“Fostering is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done but also the most rewarding,” Amy said.

“It feels good to know that my boy now has a chance at a wonderful future, and we have been a part of that.

“And no matter what happens… at least he has known love, he has known stability, safety and acceptance.

“He has seen what a family looks like and that is no small thing.”

She adds that the support you receive from your caseworker will be vital to your journey in caring for the child.

Amy encourages people who are interested in becoming a foster carer to take the time to think about it before jumping in.

“It’s a massive leap of faith,” she said.

“You must be willing to learn and ask for help – you cannot do this journey alone.

“Fostering will challenge you, stretch you and grow you in ways you have never even considered. But you might just surprise yourself with your capacity to give and just keep turning up.”

To find out more about fostering with CatholicCare, call 1300 590 898 or visit fostercare.catholiccare.org.au

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