Foster Care Parents Honoured For Contributions
The Department of Child and Family Services hosted a ceremony yesterday [May 18] to recognize the contributions of Bermuda’s Foster Parents. Long-service awards were presented to three foster parents who have collectively served for 75 years.
A spokesperson said, “The special guest speaker was Mr. Cedric McKenzie, author of the book She Never Answered. Mr. McKenzie gave a thought-provoking and inspiring keynote address about his journey through the foster care system in Arkansas.”
Cedric McKenzie, Merle Doars, Lavonne Smith, Cheryl Jones, and Minister Wayne Scott. Missing from photo is Patricia Simons
In his remarks, Minister of Community, Culture and Sports Wayne Scott said, “We recognize that the Foster Care Programme would not be successful without the ongoing dedication and drive of Foster Parents. It is such an unselfish act to open your home to provide a safe, caring environment for a child. Foster children need families to love and care for them.
“I am sure the journey of foster parenting is not without adventure; it is not for the faint of heart. It is a definite challenge, but we acknowledge the significant role you have in the lives of children who are in need. What you do today for these children does reap tremendous rewards for the child, their families, and our community.”
Cedric McKenzie
“Foster children come from a variety of family circumstances and they range in age. And, for whatever reason a child is placed in foster care, we salute our foster parents who are making every effort to fill the void, to plug in the gap. On behalf of the 70 children currently in Foster Care homes in Bermuda, we thank you.
“I’d like to to add a special thank you to those parents who are fostering children with special needs, as this presents itself with very unique dynamics.”
Minister Scott is surrounded by foster parents at the ceremony
“Today’s function simply represents a token of gratitude and is a method by which the Ministry and the Department of Child and Family Services can demonstrate our appreciation for the awesome role that foster parents play in the community.”
She Never Answered is a riveting story of how a child left behind at only six days old grows up and survives the Arkansas Foster Care System. Cedric S. McKenzie’s story is one of drama, comedy, and tragedy, along with redemption and triumph.
His struggle to succeed against all odds is chronicled by his experiences of ups and downs and being touched along the way by the likes of former President Bill Clinton, who was then the governor of Arkansas, and his foster mother, Ozie Lampkin.
Great job to all of you! I appreciate foster parents and the tremendous work they do!
God bless them!
Great Job I appreciate the foster parents for their massive effort and dedication they do for others.