Meet our Foster Carer: Mez

Mez is a single mum to a young daughter and has been a foster carer with Barwon Child, Youth & Family since her daughter was only six months old.

Becoming a foster carer was something Mez had always wanted to do once she had her own children. When she was pregnant with her daughter she decided now was the right time to take the next step. She started her foster care training while she was pregnant and finished it shortly after her daughter was born.

A common question many people have when they’re considering becoming a foster parent is, ‘Can I foster a child if I’m a single parent?’ The answer is yes! Almost anyone can become a foster carer. Single people, same sex couples, families with or without children can all become foster carers. The most important thing is that you can provide children and young people with a safe, stable and loving home.

Mez is sharing her journey as a single parent foster carer to encourage other single people to also consider becoming a foster carer with Barwon Child, Youth & Family.

“It seems a lot of people want to become a foster parent, but think there is an obstacle they can’t overcome or it wouldn’t suit them. But I can tell you it’s very possible, with two hands or four hands, zero to any number of your own children and just one little part of your heart.”

“Every child deserves a comfortable home, so if you’ve got one you’re willing to share you’ll see happiness in kids you wouldn’t have thought possible.”

Mez’s daughter is now almost two years old and she says that her experience as a foster carer has brought many benefits to both of them.

“It has taught her so many worldly things I just couldn’t. Sharing, caring, development in all aspects. It’s great to see her play with other and learn from them as well as teach.”

Foster care really makes a difference in the lives of both the children and the foster carers. For Mez, she says “I love kids and I believe every child deserves a chance and if I can help out giving it to them, then that makes me happy.”

There is currently an urgent need for more foster carers across Geelong and the Barwon region. If you would like to find out more about becoming a foster carer contact us.