Stories

Natasha shares how, despite a busy family life and demanding career, she became a foster carer and discovered that even short-term care can create powerful, life‑changing moments for a child. 

Across schools, Paw Pals uses therapy dogs and trained facilitators to support students facing barriers to learning, helping them reconnect with confidence, focus, and possibility.

For nearly four decades, caring for children has been the rhythm of Janet’s life. After 39 years as a foster carer, she can look back and see how each child, each challenge, and each joyful moment has shaped who she is today.

Through collaborative, trauma-informed care, Danny* rebuilt safety, culture and relationships, transitioning from violence to healing, education and employment support, enabling a safe return home and family stability.

Living in kinship care with his grandmother since infancy, Jayden experienced significant early trauma and lives with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, and multiple learning difficulties.

Ariana found steady support through MacKillop’s Family Preservation and Reunification team, helping her rebuild stability, confidence, and a hopeful path toward reconnecting with her baby.