A LOCAL foster care agency is hosting a coffee morning this month in Warrington.
Orange Grove Fostercare is hoping to encourage more people to consider fostering, as there is a risk that because of the shortage of foster homes, children will be forced to relocate to areas with more carers.
The coffee morning will take place on Wednesday, June 20 at their office in Lower Stretton.
Team manager Heather Sheridan said: “People can come along and meet our friendly team, who will be talking about the role of a foster carer and what this rewarding career has to offer.
“We also try to dispel some of the myths behind being a foster parent. Being a foster parent is different now than it was 10 years ago. The process is not as difficult as people often think it might be and we support them all of the way.
“We are looking for more determined carers like Suzo to combat the shortage.”
Foster carer Suzo Gesto, wanted to share the joy of watching his foster son transform into a happy and successful adult.
His experience comes as part of a series of stories highlighting the rewards of undertaking foster care as Orange Grove Leeds tries to deal with a shortage of carers in the region.
Suzo has gone above and beyond to deal with the shortages in his local area by fostering over 30 children in 35 years, despite losing his wife nearly 10 years ago.
He said: “Since my wife died, fostering has really helped me to keep busy and to focus on other things. Ruth inspired me to become a foster carer and it was always her dream to have a big family so I’m glad I can fulfil this and make her proud.”
“Seeing the children doing so well and going on to live normal, happy lives gives me the greatest satisfaction.”
Suzo currently has two foster children, aged 19 and 14. 19-year-old Zacc moved in with the couple when he was four and a half years old. Now, 15 years later he’s heading off to university to study Law.
Zacc said: “Most children in my situation don’t go to university, but dad changed my life for the better and has given me all the hope and opportunities available to me.”
The fostering Network says that 1,240 children and teenagers like Zacc need a foster home in the North West.
If you would like to find out more about these events, or fostering in general, call 0800 3698513 or visit https://www.orangegrovefostercare.co.uk/Coffee-Mornings-North-West
