The enduring impact of fostering was celebrated on Sunday by the Department of Child and Family Services, opening Foster Care Month.

Staff and foster parents held their annual appreciation tea, with Tinée Furbert, the youth, social development and seniors minister, praising the island’s “unsung heroes” who answered the call.

She added: "I also want to give heartfelt thanks to foster families who have taken in sibling groups, thereby keeping the sibling relationship intact."

Ms Furbert commended the work of respite care providers offering extra support.

Lashuntae Dill-Assing, a former foster child, was this year’s guest speaker.

She highlighted the inspiration, forgiveness and perseverance on her journey to graduate from Delaware State University with a bachelor's degree in nursing — and was awarded the Glenda Edwards Scholarship by the Foster Parent Association.

Among the honourees were Lindsay Simmons, foster parent of the year; Selena Simons, social worker of the year; Simone Romaine, runner-up social worker of the year; and Anthony and Susan Richardson, for their outstanding dedication to foster parenting.

Irene Francis was celebrated for her 20-year tenure in fostering upon her retirement.

Ms Simons, foster care co-ordinator at DCFS, thanked all foster parents and respite caregivers. She added: “Your dedication and love make a lasting impact on the lives of children in our community."

To learn more about fostering in Bermuda, contact Ms Simons at 294-5871 or e-mail smsimons@gov.bm.