Helping children with a disability achieve new milestones brings joy for Joanne

The pure joy children with a disability often bring is just amazing

Foster carer Joanne says supporting children and young people with a disability has given her so much joy, especially when helping them to achieve new milestones.

The 48-year-old has been fostering through Uniting Communities for seven years, caring for five children in long term and short term placements during this time.

She currently cares for three children, a 9-year old boy who has been with her for more than two years, a two-year-old boy who has been in her care for the past 3 months, as well as being the guardian of an 18 year-old.

“Children with a disability are like any other, they just need love and have so much to give,” she says.

“The pure joy they often bring is just amazing.”

Joanne has shared her story as part of a #FosterCareSA social media campaign to bring greater awareness to the need for more foster carers in South Australia.

With a background in child care and disability, Joanne says she was always interested in providing care for children and young people with high needs.

“I find it very rewarding to be part of a child achieving and being happy, as for children with a disability meeting goals can be much harder for them,” she says.

“It can be challenging emotionally and physically…but the stability, routine and love you give them helps them to thrive.

“I believe fostering makes such a difference in a child's life.”

She urged others who had considered becoming a foster carer to take the next step.

“I would encourage people to get involved in fostering,” she says.

“It is so rewarding to know what a big difference a little of your time and love can make.”

To help us raise awareness about foster care, please share these stories on social media with the hashtag #FosterCareSA

Anyone interested in finding out more about foster care should visit www.fostercare.sa.gov.au or call 1300 2 FOSTER (367 837).