By Lindsay Harris

While this statement rings true today, it isn't a new story. In fact, it's the name of a story that was published in Victoria over 40 years ago. What is new, are the many different kinds of families who are welcome to apply to be foster parents. Unfortunately, there are many myths surrounding foster families. Let's bust some of the myths that are still floating out there.

Myth: You must be a two-parent family.
Truth: Foster parents can be single, married, or in a life partnership.
Myth: You have to own your home.
Truth: You can rent or own your home, condo or apartment.
Myth: People over 50 are too old to become foster parents.
Truth: As long as you are over 19 years of age & have the love & energy to give, you can apply to become a foster parent.
Myth: You can't be a foster parent if you have children at home.
Truth: Foster families often include foster sisters & foster brothers. What is important is that everyone in the family wants to become a foster family.
Myth: Foster parents aren't allowed to work outside the home.
Truth: Many of our foster parents work outside of the home.
Myth: You have no say in what child is placed in your home.
Truth: You determine which age group/gender would fit in best with your family.

So, who makes a great foster parent? Individuals who are nurturing, patient, and willing to work as part of a team surrounding their foster child.

Lindsay Harris, is the South Island Recruitment Coordinator for FPSS Foster Parent Support Services Society