World Care Day is the world’s biggest celebration of children who grow up in foster or residential care.
This World Care Day (Friday 16 February), we want you, and the wider community, to take a moment to reflect on your understanding of children in care, and celebrate the outcomes they achieve, despite a challenging start to their lives.
All children and young people can succeed – but only with the support of their community.
What you need to #KnowAboutCare
Young people in care often face judgment and discrimination, which can impact their wellbeing and future prospects. It is important for us as a community to address this stigma and create an environment that fosters understanding, empathy, and support.
To give kids in care, and the people who care for them, a voice, this World Care Day we share and amplify their words, because they want everyone in the community to see a life in care through a different lens. These quotes provide an insight into the lives of the most vulnerable and shine a light on the impact of stigma. With a deeper understanding by the community, we believe children and young people in care can be better supported to thrive.
Share the quote that resonates with you
Help to address the stigma and celebrate the remarkable courage and achievements of children in care. Download the below quote images to share on your social media. Simply press the ellipsis (three dots) on the top right of the image to download the quote onto your device. Be sure to include the hashtag #KnowAboutCare when posting.
Small actions can create big change
Despite facing significant challenges at such a young age, we see time and time again, young people who go on to third level education, trade apprenticeships, become community leaders and create their own safe and nurturing families by being loving and engaged parents.
We believe that if we can enhance understanding about the experience of these young people, community members will be more willing to do things such as: take on a child with a care history as a trainee; give them a job in retail or hospitality while they continue their studies; or make it easier for someone who has been in care to get their first rental. Kids in care have so many additional barriers to just living an ordinary life. Helping them along the way and giving them a chance will benefit all of society.With your support, we can address the stigma that attaches to children and young people who grow up in care and create a more compassionate and supportive community.
Read the stories behind the words…
Every child deserves to grow up in an environment where they can enjoy their childhood, explore their passions, and be supported to achieve their goals. Below are stories of young people in care with MacKillop. We hope their stories deepen understanding of the challenges they face, and the supports they require from all of us so they can heal from their experiences and grow into independent and thriving adults.
