In May 2025, Care and Youth Caribbean Netherlands (ZJCN) is celebrating foster parents for a month with a series of special activities. This is the first time foster care is being highlighted for a month on the BES islands. The goal is to emphasize the importance of foster care, thank foster parents for their commitment, and inform the community. This years theme is Every Child Deserves a Home: Love Knows No Boundaries.
The kickoff of the activities took place this morning, May 5, where youth care professionals and partners came together for the kick-off event. This is the starting point of a month where foster care is central, and various activities are organized to:
Foster Care Café
In May, two Foster Care Cafés will take place for foster parents, where they can share experiences in an informal setting and discuss daily life as a foster parent. Current themes, challenges, and opportunities within foster care are central. It is an excellent opportunity to meet other foster parents and find support in a pleasant and safe environment.
Bus Tour through the Neighborhoods
On May 10, ZJCN and youth care professionals will organize a bus tour through various neighborhoods. During this, discussions will be held with local residents to raise awareness about the importance of foster care and the role foster parents play in the community.
Foster Care Day on May 24
On May 24, Foster Care Day will focus on recognition and appreciation for foster parents. ZJCN wants to highlight the invaluable and valuable role they play in the lives of children. An event will be organized where foster parents can come together, with music, good food and drinks, and a special gift as a token of thanks for their dedication and commitment. This day offers a chance to emphasize how important the care and support of foster parents are for the children they care for. ZJCN believes that every child has the right to a safe and loving environment. Sometimes that cannot be within the biological family, and therefore foster care is essential.
“Love makes no distinction. Foster parents prove every day that home is not a place, but a feeling. With this month of appreciation, we want to show how important foster parents are. They not only care for children but provide them safety, stability, and love. And that deserves recognition,” said Regiline Sambo, head of Youth Care Caribbean Netherlands.
About Youth Care Caribbean Netherlands (ZJCN)
Youth Care Caribbean Netherlands is responsible for secondary outpatient care, the implementation of child protection measures and youth probation, foster care, and supported living.