More residents are needed as foster parents for the island’s children, according to the Department of Child and Family Services, which highlighted May as foster care month.

Fifty children are in foster care at present.

Tinée Furbert, the Minister of Social Development and Seniors, said: “We have many children in our system who require the nurturing and supportive environment of a foster family.

“The importance of having the community embrace these vulnerable young people is vital.”

Ms Furbert said the island had been “extremely fortunate” in securing dedicated foster parents.

“But we can always welcome more individuals and families who are able to make a difference in the life of a child,” she said.

She called on anyone interested in becoming a foster parent to call 294-5871 or e-mail Selena Simons at smsimons@gov.bm to learn more.

A luncheon and tea is to be held in foster care month to show appreciation to those parents and families who have come forward as parents and guardians to children in need.