Cayman News Agency: CIG hopes higher wages will attract more adoptive parents

(CNS): Starting this month, foster parents in the Cayman Islands will receive a slightly higher allowance, which the Ministry of Social Development says reflects the rising cost of living. It is the first increase since 2015, but the ministry says going forward the allowance – currently $215 to $300 a week – will be reviewed annually to ensure better alignment with the cost of living.

The Department of Education said the decision to adjust the allowance was made following a comprehensive review of current cost of living considerations and in-depth analysis of feedback from the 2023 Foster Parent Survey. The survey collected input from foster parents across the country and highlighted the need for increased financial assistance to meet the growing demand for providing high-quality care for foster children.

The ministry said: “This decision is a direct response to those concerns and reflects the government’s commitment to listening to and valuing the contribution of foster parents.”

By providing more financial assistance, the government hopes to attract new families into the foster care system, aiming to ensure that every child in need of care is given a loving and stable family.

“Given the increasing cost of living, we must provide foster parents with the necessary resources so they can provide a safe and caring environment for our children,” said Social Development Minister André Ebanks.

“This allowance adjustment is about more than just financial assistance, it’s about protecting our children and ensuring their well-being. By investing in our foster care system, we can not only retain dedicated parents who play an important role in our community, but also encourage more families to consider foster care, which is a growing need on our islands.”

For information about the foster parent program, please email DCFSFostercare@gov.ky
Or call (345) 949-0290.