MacKillop’s Foster Care Plus is a foster care program that focuses on children who need specialised care across Wimmera South West, Barwon, Central Highlands and Melbourne West Metro. Often these children live with challenging medical conditions or present with significant behaviours that require experienced care.
National winners in MacKillop’s 2020 Excellence Awards, Lorraine and Sam Griffiths, from Geelong, have been foster carers for more than 18 years and recently became part of the Foster Care Plus program.
Earlier this year, they started caring for a baby boy who has a serious life limiting condition and have worked tirelessly to support his extensive care needs while supporting two other permanent care children.
Before coming to live with Lorraine and Sam, the baby had not been out of hospital for the first six months of his life and without their commitment, it is likely he would have lived all his life in hospital.
Looking after the baby means that Lorraine and Sam have to work collaboratively with a team of professionals and are meeting with consultants and health professionals at multiple appointments each week.
Andrea Hehir, Home Based Care Manager, Barwon, is in awe of the devotion the Griffiths have shown.
Lorraine and Sam have dedicated their lives to this little baby. The heartbreaking news that his condition means that he may pass away in their care has not changed their love and commitment to him despite the incredibly difficult emotionally and physically challenging pressures they face.
“All three children they care for come with particular special care needs but this child is unique due to his extremely high medical requirements. Despite the pressure they are under, Lorraine and Sam face every challenge with good humour and there’s always a welcoming and calm atmosphere in their home – they are an inspiration to everyone who meets them.” Added Andrea.
Foster Care Plus carer's are offered a high level of support including targeted training, additional case management support, intensive therapeutic intervention and a peer support program.
If you live in Wimmera South West, Barwon, Central Highlands or Melbourne West Metro and have appropriate experience in looking after trauma-impacted children or children with a disability and would like to find out more about Foster Care Plus, contact MacKillop’s Foster Care Hotline 1300 791 677 and ask about Foster Care Plus.