October 2009
Dear Caregivers:
Wow, where has the summer gone! School is now in full swing and routines have been
reestablished. A lot of homes start the new school year with new family members. Once
again, thanks for being so welcoming to the children and youth who need the nurturing of
a family environment. What would we do without such great foster homes?
The BCFFPA Foster Parent Rights document continues to be worked on by both MCFD
and the BCFFPA and we are hopeful that we will have some results very soon.
There are many foster parent appreciation events taking place around the province in
October. I encourage all foster parents to participate as this is a great networking
opportunity and you deserve to be recognized for the work that you do.
Your BCFFPA extends our gratitude to the BC Lions for their offer of 50 tickets for each
home game. Please call the office if you would like to take your children and youth to a
game. We can be reached at 1-800-663-9999.
I had the privilege to attend the IFCO Conference, along with your Vice-President
Heather Bayes, which was held in Dublin, Ireland in July. This was a great event for the
workshops and the fabulous opportunities to network with caregivers and social workers
from all over the world. The Canadian contingent took the stage on the last day to invite
everyone to Victoria in 2011. This included an outstanding presentation by our youth in
care which struck an emotional chord in the crowd.
Once again thanks for all you do for our children and youth.
Sincerely,
Melanie Filiatrault
President
