Celebrating Foster Care Month
DCFS Celebrates International Foster Care Month with Empowering Events in Bermuda
The Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) has marked International Foster Care Month with a series of events aimed at recognizing and celebrating foster parents while enhancing the skills of professionals who work with vulnerable children. The highlight of this initiative occurred on May 4, 2025, when motivational speaker Antonio Grate delivered a powerful keynote address at the annual Foster Parents Appreciation Tea.
Grate, a renowned author and motivational speaker, was invited to Bermuda to share his personal narrative, which includes navigating the challenges of growing up in foster care and overcoming significant adversity. His experiences resonate deeply with the mission of DCFS, which is dedicated to ensuring that children in the care system receive the support and stability they need to thrive. A spokesperson commented on the significance of these events, stating that they are essential for honoring the contributions of foster parents and enhancing the professional development of those in the child welfare sector.
Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors, Tinee Furbert, emphasized the vital role foster parents play in the community. “Foster parents are the unsung heroes in our community. Their continued commitment to providing safe, nurturing homes deserves recognition every day, but especially during International Foster Care Month,” she expressed. The minister noted that Grate’s insights provided invaluable motivation for both foster families and professionals alike.
The following day, DCFS hosted a professional development session at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) that brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including magistrates, police officers, and mental health professionals. Grate’s presentation captivated attendees as he shared harrowing yet inspiring stories from his youth in inner-city Chicago, including his battles with gun violence and familial substance abuse. His message underscored the importance of resilience and the fundamental role adults serve in shaping the lives of children in foster care, leaving attendees moved and motivated.
Selena Simons, the Foster Care Coordinator with DCFS, stressed the importance of such forums. She explained that, “Exposing DCFS staff and stakeholders to this type of forum was so important. Everyone who has professional responsibilities for servicing children in care needs to have the ability to enhance their direct practice styles.” The feedback following the event was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants expressing a renewed commitment to advocacy and support for children and families.
DCFS expressed gratitude to Mr. Grate for his impactful contribution and to all those who continue to support the significant work of foster care throughout Bermuda. For individuals interested in becoming foster parents or learning more about the foster care system, further information is available on the Government of Bermuda’s Child and Family Services website.
In a time when the welfare of children is a critical societal concern, events like these serve as vital reminders of the positive impact of foster care and the ongoing need for community support and involvement.
