The island’s foster parents were given free meals today to mark the work they do to help children.

Staff from the Department of Child and Family Services handed out meals to about 80 foster parents as part of Foster Care Month celebrations.

Selena Simons, a foster care coordinator with the department, said: “Every year we try and show our recognition of the work our foster families do - we usually have a ceremony or celebration.”

She said that traditionally, foster parents were invited to an appreciation tea at a hotel – but the Covid-19 pandemic meant that has not been possible for the last two years.

But staff arranged for a drive-by dinner at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Paget instead – and even made contributions to the menu.

Tinee Furbert, the social development minister, turned up to help serve the hot meals.

Ms Furbert said: “Our foster parents are vitally important. Sometimes parents or guardians find themselves in a situation where they are unable to care for their children.

“That’s why we need people who are willing to step up and be loving parents who can give back to the child.”