Agenzija Appogg is calling for those interested to apply to act as foster carers, to give a family environment to children currently living in institutionalised care but who can be placed in alternative residential care such as fostering.

The agency said over 150 children are in foster care with over 140 families. The objective is to provide a family environment to these children when possible. A new intake of foster carers is currently taking place and the agency is also planning a new training programme for those interested in becoming foster carers, which will be starting soon.

The UN Convention on the Right of the Child states that a child has the right to a family and to live in a family environment, and fostering is a successful way of offering a family environment to the child until the natural parents are able and prepared to take responsibility of their child once again.

Agenzija Appogg offers training and ongoing support to foster carers. Once a child is placed in foster care, Appogg offers a tight support system both to the fostered child and to the foster carers.

Families and individuals interested in fostering may call the Fostering Services of Agenzija Appogg on Supportline 179. Further information is available from the website www.appogg.gov.mt