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Temporary and permanent caregivers have received increases of 4.2 per cent in June to basic maintenance rates, skill fees, as well as babysitting and relief per diems. (Photo: Government of Alberta on YouTube)

Alberta investing in support for foster families

Jun 5, 2024 | 12:43 PM

The Alberta government is providing funding aimed at easing strain on foster families.

The province is adjusting various caregiver rates, effective June 1, 2024. Temporary and permanent caregivers have received increases of 4.2 per cent in June to basic maintenance rates, skill fees, as well as babysitting and relief per diems.

The province says this change will benefit almost 7,000 caregivers across the province and the 10,000 children, youth and young adults they care for.

Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services said, “Foster and kinship caregivers open their hearts and homes to give young people the connection and support they need to grow and find success. This investment means caregiver families can worry less about their finances and focus on what they do best: providing children and youth a strong foundation for the future.”

The new investment is on top of $23.6 million in new supports and stability measures for foster caregivers and young people in care announced in Fall 2023. These include coverage of counselling sessions, and implementing the Refer-a-Foster Caregiver program.