South West Aboriginal Medical Service’s (SWAMS) Kwaba Bidi Foster Care program is proudly joining the celebration of Foster and Family Care Week from Monday 29th July, highlighting its commitment to empowering Aboriginal families and community members to become foster carers.

Under the leadership of Lesley Nelson, CEO of SWAMS, the program, which launched late in 2023, emphasises the importance of preserving cultural connections for Aboriginal children while providing nurturing and loving temporary homes.

“SWAMS is committed to ensuring that our koolangkas (children), moort (families) and communities are empowered to build strong futures from a secure foundation,” said Lesley Nelson.

“We know that more than 40% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Western Australia are not placed with other Indigenous carers or in Indigenous residential care at the moment, and we would love to turn that around.

“We recognise the profound impact of cultural understanding on the wellbeing of our children, intertwining health, wellbeing, and culture.”

The Kwaba Bidi team includes highly qualified and passionate Aboriginal workers who support our foster carers.

Their mission is for carers to help children maintain essential connections to family and country in a culturally respectful environment.

“We encourage anyone who has ever considered becoming a foster carer to take the first step and seek information,” Ms Nelson said.

“By opening your heart and home, you can make a profound difference in the lives of our koolangkas, helping them to grow and succeed within their cultural foundation.”

The SWAMS Kwaba Bidi team will host a morning tea for foster carers in partnership with Key Assets and Life Without Barriers on Tuesday, 30th July. This event is an opportunity to celebrate Foster and Family Care Week and learn more about how you can make a difference.

Then on Saturday, 10th August, from 10am to 12pm individuals interested in becoming foster carers are invited to an informative session at the Bunbury Public Library. This session will provide insights into the rewarding role of being a foster carer with SWAMS.

“For anyone considering becoming a foster carer, this session is a perfect opportunity to have your questions answered and learn about the positive impact you can make,” Ms Nelson said, noting that one-on-one meetings are also welcomed.

“Together, we can build stronger, healthier futures that also include cultural understanding and support.”

The Kwaba Bidi team are keen to yarn to anyone who may be thinking about becoming a foster carer.

If you are indigenous or non-indigenous, please contact the team for more information by phoning 9783 5008 or going to www.swams.com.au/service/kwaba-bidi