08/07/2025
Foster Families applauded for being difference makers, bridge builders, during annual Foster Families Retreat
NASSAU, The Bahamas – Foster families across The Bahamas were applauded for being “bridge builders and difference makers” during the annual Foster Family Retreat hosted by the Placement, Adoption and Foster Care Units of the Children and Family Services Division, Department of Social Services.
In its third year, the Retreat was designed to be a “space for learning, healing and strengthening” for parents, children, caregivers, and advocates, and focused on the best practices for dealing with the “real and sometimes difficult” issues that affect foster families some of which include, trauma-informed care, separation anxiety, and managing behavioural challenges. Presentations were also made on communication and social media – a parent’s guide; and understanding the evolving medical needs of children.
The event was held at Zion South Beach Baptist Church under the theme: 'Foster Families Making a Difference by Maintaining Connections,' and was part of the ongoing support provided for foster families.
“Today, we gather not just as professionals and caregivers, but as a community sincerely committed to the well-being of our nation’s most vulnerable children,” Under Secretary in the Ministry of Social Services, Information and Broadcasting, Mrs. Donette Williamson, said during her Opening Address.
“Maintaining connections means so much more than staying in touch, it means nurturing relationships with birth families when and where possible, maintaining bonds with siblings, respecting a child’s culture and roots and linking them to opportunities that allow them to grow and blossom. Research shows that children who maintain these connections experience fewer emotional disruptions and have better outcomes over the long-term.”
Under Secretary Williamson told her audience that as foster parents, they are on the frontlines, navigating complex emotional landscapes, advocating for education and healthcare, and oftentimes, simply being a shoulder to cry on.
“You are the steady presence in a child’s world that may have been filled with uncertainty and trauma. We know that being a part of foster care is not without its challenges. This Retreat is designed to be a space for learning. It will focus on best practices for dealing with the real and sometimes difficult issues that affect foster families – trauma-informed care, dealing with separation anxiety, managing behavioural challenges, learning difficulties, and understanding the evolving medical needs of the children in your care. We are here to equip you with the tools and knowledge to meet not just the physical needs of these children, but their emotional, social and medical needs as well.”
Under Secretary Williamson said fostering is not a short-term solution, but a long-term investment “in the lives of children, and the future of our Bahamas.” She applauded those families who have fostered children over the years.
“It is not just a job for foster families alone, but for all of us. The Village approach is needed. The government cannot do it alone, the church, non-governmental organizations, community organizations, businesses, educators, medical professionals, all of us, must come together to support foster families and the children they serve whether through mentorship programmes, job training, scholarships or even just a simple act of kindness – every bit counts.
“To each foster parent, grandparent, and advocate in this room, I thank you for opening your homes, your hearts, and your lives to our children. You are difference makers. You are bridge builders, and because of you, many children will experience love, healing and a brighter future. Together, we can build a stronger safety net. Together, we can build a better Bahamas.”
Reverend Anthony Sampson, Senior Pastor at Zion South Beach Baptist Church, told the foster families and parents present that their decision to become foster families was “noble and sacrificial” and one that can help to create an environment of growth and self-actualization in the children who are being fostered.
“I want to applaud each of you for availing yourself to be a foster parent. Through your decision, these children have a sense of belonging, nurturing and stability in their lives. These ingredients create an environment for growth and self-actualization to take place. Your decision to provide foster care also contributes to the positive social changer we so desperately need in our country, especially among our youth.
“As each of you avail yourselves to provide parental care, it is important that you endeavor and strive to be your best selves. This is important because so many of our children are carrying the scars of trauma and so you must be Healing Agents. Being our best selves, requires that we be spiritually well. I wish to contend that spiritual health contributes to our biopsychosocial wellbeing,” Reverend Sampson added.
(Biopsychosocial models look at the interconnection between biology, psychology, and socio-environmental factors. These models specifically examine how these aspects play a role in a range of topics but mainly psychiatry, health and human development.)
BIS Photos: Mark Ford
