October 29, 2009
MLA Boys Praises Foster Parents

VICTORIA – Burnaby-Lougheed MLA Harry Bloy rose in the Legislature today to praise foster parents around the province on the day a Foster Parent Rights document was signed.

“I rise today to speak in recognition of foster parent rights. It's my distinct pleasure to do so during Foster Parents Month in British Columbia,” said Bloy. “A Foster Parent Rights document will be signed later today by the Minister of Children and Family Development and Melanie Filiatrault, of the B.C. Federation of Foster Parent Associations.

“This document represents the principles and values that exist in relationship between the Ministry and the foster parents that provide support for thousands of children and youth across British Columbia. This document recognizes the commitment, skills and contribution that foster parents make each and every day. This document recognizes the unique nature of fostering community and the vital role a foster parent plays as a cornerstone in our services to children and youth across British Columbia.

“Foster parents come from all walks of life. They are our neighbours and our colleagues, as is the member for Surrey–White Rock,” said Bloy in reference to his colleague, Gordie Hogg. “They have diverse cultural, social and economic backgrounds, but what they all have in common is they are ordinary people engaged in extraordinary acts of kindness.

“There are almost 3,300 foster families in British Columbia. They give children a family and a safe, loving and stable environment when their own parents are not able to look after them. There is always a need for more individuals and families to open their hearts and their homes and join the thousands of other foster families who contribute to the fabric of our communities.

“I encourage British Columbians to consider becoming foster parents and to take the time to acknowledge those who have taken on this incredible role in our province,” concluded Bloy.

Visit Harry’s website at www.harrybloymla.bc.ca

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