Fostering Hope: Uniting for the Future of Vulnerable Children in India
- 7 Aug, 2023
There are 444 million children in India, with those who cannot be with their parents having a serious issue in obtaining sufficient care. Currently, 0.18 million children are institutionalized as a result of parental inability or orphanhood. Recognizing every child’s right to grow up in a family context, both national and international legislation stresses the significance of developing alternative care systems that prioritize the child’s best interests and right to family care. UNICEF, which is part of the UNSDG, has been essential in drafting foster care guidelines and obtaining governmental assistance, but effective implementation remains a difficulty, threatening the futures of countless institutionalized children.
To address this issue, the Foster Care Consortium (FCC) initiated by Love Without Boundaries India (LWB India) aims to bring together organizations committed to child protection and care. Their goal is to establish shared principles and approaches, thereby enhancing the impact and sustainability of foster care efforts. The consortium also advocates collectively to promote the cause of foster care and supports initiatives while ensuring compliance with established standards.
Recently, a significant FCC meeting organized by LWB India brought together ten organizations dedicated to child protection and care. The FCC meeting witnessed the inspiring participation of seven organizations committed to child protection and care. Sadhana lSC, Vaarat, Nature’s Club, Ride Organisation, Child fund, Share, and Pallisri came together with a shared vision and unwavering dedication. This gathering represents a crucial step towards securing a brighter future for vulnerable children in foster care. With each organization contributing their unique expertise and experience, the FCC meeting promises to pave the way for collaborative advocacy, increased impact, and sustainable change in foster care.
Love Without Boundaries India (LWB) has extended its commitment to foster care beyond borders. By facilitating dialogue and collaboration, LWB India aims to create a society where every child can thrive. The discussion in Odisha focused on government guidelines for foster care and stressed the importance of family-based care for children. Various topics were explored, including love-based foster care, community involvement, legal aspects, and the need for pre and post-placement counseling. The meeting also touched upon trained foster parents, communication techniques, and the crucial role of social workers and NGOs. Distinguishing adoption from foster care and establishing support systems for parents were also essential points of discussion.
As a result of the meeting, critical decisions were made to shape the future of foster care in Odisha. These decisions include planning future meetings, providing financial incentives to staff involved in identifying and screening foster parents, and LWB India offering comprehensive support through materials, technical assistance, and capacity building. The consortium aims to establish foster care units in every district of Odisha, starting with Kendrapada, with the help of NGOs raising awareness within their communities. Placements will prioritize love and care, taking into account factors like academic background. Overall, the meeting was a significant milestone in promoting the significance of foster care, addressing legal aspects, and striving for an improved foster care system.
If you are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children, you are warmly invited to join this transformative journey. By clicking the link below, you can collaborate with us to create meaningful change, empowering these children with the love, stability, and promising future they deserve within nurturing foster families. Together, we have the power to make a difference and give these children the care they need.
