Foster care is more than just providing a roof over a child’s head. It’s about creating a safe, stable, and healing environment for children who have experienced trauma, loss, neglect or abandonment.
Karen Uys, Social Services Manager at Badisa, elaborates more about the unseen challenges foster families face, and how ordinary people can offer meaningful support.
The hidden realities of foster care
“Foster care isn’t just about raising children,” Karen explains. “It’s about therapeutic care. Many children in the system struggle to trust or attach, and their behaviour (though often misunderstood) is a reflection of pain.”
Foster parents step into this space of emotional complexity, often without enough support. They manage trauma, coordinate care with limited resources, and face burnout, especially in lower-income communities. Though foster families receive a government grant, it’s rarely enough, especially for children with special needs or medical requirements.
And while state-funded services exist, they can be difficult to access. Long waiting lists and administrative red tape create additional stress, leaving foster families exhausted and isolated.
READ MORE: Foster care is making a difference in South Africa
‘You don’t have to do something big to make a real difference’
Says Karen, “Foster parents often won’t ask for help, often out of pride, privacy concerns or fear of judgment. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need it.”
She adds, “Simple gestures, like providing cooked meals, food hampers, snacks for school, transport to and from appointments or school or offering day care or aftercare services, can go a long way in supporting foster families and easing their day-to-day challenges.” Support like this can lighten the load, whether it’s helping with laundry, cooking a meal, or watching other children during stressful times. “Most of all,” says Karen, “these families need understanding, inclusion and kindness, without judgment or pity.”
‘Teachers and schools are often the most consistent part of a foster child’s life’
Support isn’t limited to meals or transport. One of the most impactful environments for foster children is the classroom.
Placing children in schools near their foster homes makes daily routines easier and helps them feel rooted in their community. Karen encourages teachers to create inclusive classrooms, be sensitive to each child’s background, and communicate openly with foster parents and case managers. “With patience, empathy and teamwork, schools can play a major role in helping foster children feel safe, supported and able to thrive.”
Start small and be present
If you don’t personally know a foster family but want to get involved, Karen suggests contacting your nearest child protection organisation. Badisa, for example, screens volunteers and matches them with suitable opportunities. You can also support initiatives like The Poppie Project, which raises awareness and funds through symbolic rag dolls representing real foster children.
Karen says that, while help is welcome, it should always be offered with humility and respect. “Foster care is governed by laws to protect the child. Respecting those boundaries is essential,” she says. That means not sharing stories or photos without permission, and not expecting public thanks or recognition. Teenagers especially don’t want to feel like someone’s project. They want to be treated like any other young person, with dignity, trust and care.
Want to help? Here’s where to start
Both financial and material donations are always appreciated. Financial support can cover essential needs such as:
- Public transport
- Medical care
- Sponsoring airtime for caseworker communication
- School uniforms and stationery
- Clothing and toiletries
Other helpful donations include:
- Baby items such as formula, nappies, cots, bottles and strollers
- Second-hand phones, laptops or school shoes
- Matric farewell dresses, suits, and accessories
- Sports gear, backpacks, sanitary products, and warm clothing
Says Karen, “These contributions help children feel included, cared for, and able to participate fully in daily life.”
If you’re wondering how to get involved, start by visiting Badisa’s website to learn more about foster care, join an information session, or connect with a project or family in need of support. Whether you’re part of a church, business, or simply just want to help, there’s always something to do.
Make a donation to support foster families
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