Our foster caregivers come from all backgrounds. Anyone can do it, and the rewards are great. Pamela Anderson (Ngāpuhi) has been a foster caregiver for 34 years and has cared for over 100 tamariki and rangatahi in that time. Fourteen years ago she joined Kia Puāwai as a foster caregiver and shares some of her thoughts on her time here.
How did you celebrate Foster Care Awareness Week in March?
This year we organised a pamper day for about 50 caregivers. We had footspas, we did our nails, a couple of massage therapists came along which was great. We also had an ‘offloading table’ which was actually a support table where we had information and people could ask any questions. We also had a jigsaw puzzle where you could sit with others, kōrero and do a few pieces. It was a great day.
What made you get into foster care?
I started my family when I was young and one day I saw a newspaper advertisement for an organisation looking for caregivers. It said there was free training so I went along and really enjoyed it. I brought young people into my home and trained into how to care for new-borns with high needs. I also care for whānau of groups up to five. Not only did I get to see my own kids growing up but they also got play mates. I have four children of my own and a foster daughter who came to us when she was three months and still lives with us. She is now 17.
Why should people consider becoming a foster carer?
Anyone can do caregiving – people just have to believe in themselves. If you have aroha, then you can do it. People think the tamariki and rangatahi are bad but they are not. Their behaviours can be challenging at times. I have had kids that have pushed the boundaries but they are good kids. Once you peel back the behaviours, then you will see what they are really like. Through guidance we get them set for the real world. As a caregiver, you are continuously learning. It is incredible how much you learn.
What have you learnt from being a foster carer?
Patience, never ever judge, resilience and always ask for help. I have learnt a lot from the tamariki and rangatahi I have had over the years. Being a foster carer has helped me parent my own children and I have taken my learnings into the real world, into my marriage and my friendships. You live and breathe it every day.