FOSTER FAMILIES

Child Introduction

Prem was born to an unwed mother who was only 12 years old when she gave birth to this child. The biological mother was deaf. The child was born premature and the family of the biological mother left the child in the hospital, choosing not to take him home. He stayed in the hospital for 25 days to receive treatment for premature birth, after which he was transferred to a Child Care Institution., He was legally free for adoption as he was abandoned by his family. He was to be placed with an adoptive family; however the child had a neck problem that caused multiple adoptive family placements to not be completed.

Potential Family Introduction

Potential family is from a lower middle class background. Potential father runs a food stall in evening hours and potential mother sells bangles from home. The potential couple is running their house with hard work. The couple already applied for adoption but there were a long queue. As part of an outreach program for potential foster parents, the foster couple was contacted by Foster Care Society. Once they were informed of what foster care is, they became interested in fostering. With support of Foster Care Society throughout the application process, they were notified that their household was fit to receive a foster child.

Matching Day

On the day of matching, potential family accepted the child as the child is having problem in neck, he can’t move his neck one side, but the family is acceptable and wanted to foster the child as he was and said a few words “potential father said that he also has neck problem from birth and we don’t have any problem in fostering this child and said yes to the child. They were so excited and prepared a big celebration in anticipation of the foster child coming to live with them. The foster mother said, “After 26 years, I got a chance to become a mother and it has touched my heart!”

Life in Foster Care

In 2015, these foster parents were joined by a one-and-a-half-year-old boy. The extended family of the foster parents was supportive of foster parents bringing the child into their home. The family said that the adjustment period was about one and a half months and the child experienced new food, lifestyle in foster home, and learned how to interact with people. The parents were so happy to change this child’s life by providing him with so many things that he had never had before.

The foster mother describes her favorite memory with the child as first time he called her “mother”. He walked towards her and gave her a big hug when he calls her “Mumma”. She stated that this was the beautiful day in her life. The foster father is very proud of his foster son as both have problem in neck from birth. Foster child is very attached to his foster father and enjoys waiting for him to return from work every day so he can play with him. The parents have seen tremendous social growth in the child. He is growing daily in his skills and loves attending family and community events. Foster child has a loving family and bright future.

Child Introduction

Naman was 4 years old when he was reported to Child Line because he was begging on the streets. The police department linked this child to the missing children’s portal. When this case came to the Child Welfare Committee’s attention, they asked the police and Child Line team to search for this child’s biological parents. In the police and Child Line’s investigation, it was found that the child’s family is a nomad and travels to different places. During consultations at the Child Care Institution, it was found that the child has never been to school and has an addiction to eat tobacco. His family had a similar habit. Although the police were trying to trace the child’s parents, it was observed that to improve the child’s habits and link him with education, a proper family environment and a good upbringing were a necessity. And in this regard, children are declared foster children.

Potential Family Introduction

A potential mother (age 52) is a housewife, and a potential father (age 54) is a government teacher. Potential families understood foster care from a previous member of the Child Welfare Committee in their district. The member educated the couple on what foster care is and introduced them to the Foster Care Society. They were supported by Foster Care Society throughout the application process and were very happy to be declared a fit family for foster care.

Matching Day

Potential parents accepted the child at first sight, motivated by the belief that children are like manifestations of the divine, and they aim to bring the child home to impart good values and shape his future. Potential parents become emotional because they will soon become mothers and fathers and will be able to shape a child’s life. And she said yes to fostering the child and was excited to bring the child home.

Life in Foster Care

At the time of the initial placement, there was a language barrier between the foster child and his parents. He spoke a local dialect that differed from his parents’. With time, he learned the Hindi language and is now learning English too. In his foster mother’s view, “the more time a foster child will spend with her, the better she will be able to make his future better and provide him with the love and family environment that he was deprived of.”

Being a foster parent is itself a challenging job at times. In this case, the background of the child was living on the streets. He has many behavioural problems, and his foster family is constantly working with him to improve his ehavior. A foster child struggles to obey his foster parents when they discipline him.

It has taken a lot of work and communication with the child for the foster parents to earn his trust. Additionally, since the foster parents do not have biological children, they quickly realised that their parenting styles differ from one another. The foster mother likes to have a structured and disciplined routine for the boy, while the foster father enjoys giving the boy all of the things that he wants. They continue to grow as a couple and are learning to compromise with one another in the process of becoming foster parents.

Currently, the child is adjusted in the family, studying at a well-known school in the city in the 6th grade, and achieving good grades. A foster child paints in his spare time and solves math problems with his foster father.

Child Introduction

The foster child was born to a mother who was deemed mentally incapable of taking care of her. The biological mother lives in a mental institution. Because of this, the child had been living in a child care institution for 1.5 years.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential family is from a middle-class background. A potential father is a chef at a 5-star hotel. And a potential mother is a homemaker. The potential couple is running their house with hard work. Foster father always wanted to have child. Due to some medical issues, they do not have any biological children.

The couple already applied for adoption, but there was a long queue. After a year on the waiting list, they received an SMS promoting the Foster Care Society’s work. Neither of the parents knew what foster care was, but they wanted to bring a child into their lives. They met with the founder and president of the Foster Care Society and decided that foster care seemed like a great new way to bring a child into their life and shape a child’s life.

The parents state that Foster Care Society was very helpful throughout the application process. They received technical support from FCS staff every now and then. Their application was processed within a week of submission. The father was very surprised by this, as the application for adoption took over a year to be approved.

The parents were excited when they found out their application was processed, and they decorated their home with balloons to celebrate the homecoming of the foster child.

Matching Day

At first, the child was closed off and shy because she lived in a child care institute with female staff and other girl children in a closed home with no outside exposure. Potential parents brought chocolates and cookies for her and met her multiple times to comfort her, and after 5–6 meetings, they decided to foster the girl child.

Life in Foster Care

Foster children took time to adjust to their foster parents. She hid and refused to play or talk with her parents. She had problems sleeping. Foster parents tried every possible way to comfort her and help her maintain her sleep cycle. They often took her on drives late at night to manage her sleep cycle and help her get a good night’s sleep.

At the beginning of foster child placement, the foster girl was very afraid of her foster father. After a month of placement, her foster father shaved his beard and moustache to see if that made her less fearful of him. The foster child opened up to him, and in no time she created a strong bond with the foster father.

Foster parents stated that the adjustment period lasted about six months before the girl was fully comfortable with them and in their home.

The foster father stated that foster care means “family” to him. He told how this foster care process brought him the family that he has always wanted, and they hope to be able to adopt the foster child in the future, providing a forever family for him. He expressed the need for organisations like Foster Care Society to exist all over India as a way to connect children with families.

Child Introduction

The foster child was born to a mother who was institutionalized. From birth, she lived with her biological mother in the same institution. Her mother was receiving mental health treatment and was involved in some illegal activities. The girl became eligible for foster care and was moved to a child care institution in another district. And declared eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

This potential mother is a single woman who has one daughter through adoption. She knew that she wanted to bring another child into her family. Due to her work schedule, she felt that she could best care for an older child instead of a younger one, who would need much more attention. When she approached the Specialised Adoption Agency (SAA) in her district, they told her about fostering. With foster care, she could choose the age range and gender of the child who would be placed with her. She hoped for her daughter to have a younger sister through fostering.

Matching Day

On matching day, the potential mother was trying to create a bond with the foster child by talking about topics according to her age. The foster girl was unfamiliar with the idea of family. The potential mother explained to her what it means to be a daughter and a sister. The foster child had a very hard time accepting and reacting to a potential mother, as do many foster children. The potential mother accepted the fact that the foster child had been living in a child care institution for 7 years, so there is no way she is going to change overnight. The foster mother explained that she chose to shift her mindset from wanting to change the foster child to just wanting the foster child to feel accepted.

Life in Foster Care

At the time of placement, she did not reciprocate the love and affection she received from her new foster family. She often tends to isolate herself and does not talk. She had a hard time expressing herself, often making faces instead of communicating with words. She almost never smiled during her first few months with the foster family. She also spoke a different local dialect and struggled to communicate with her foster family as they spoke proper Hindi.

After one and a half years with her foster family, the girl has made developmental improvements and excels socially. She now loves laughing and playing with her foster sister. She changed from being quiet to having her foster mother describe her as a very chirpy girl. She has had very few problems in school. She grasps a lot of educational concepts and loves extracurricular activities. She is also thriving in her drawing and dance classes.

The extended family of the foster mother is very accepting of the girl and treats her as if she were a biological child. The foster mother says that she has loved taking in her foster daughter as part of her family. While the adjustment was hard, she is so glad to have put in all of the efforts to help her foster child feel welcome in her new home. The girl is now very happy to be living with a family in a home. The foster mother hopes to encourage others who want to share their home with a child to become foster

Currently, Foster Child is 12 years old, studying at Mikado Kids in 5th Standard, performing very well in school, and participating in every curricular activity. On weekends, the foster mother reads stories to the foster child. Foster Child imitates Elder Sister and tries to learn things from Elder Sister. This family is a complete package of love, care, and acceptance.

Child Introduction

Priya was born to a mother who was institutionalized. Due to her mother’s mental health conditions, she was moved to a child care institution, and the Child Welfare Committee declared that this child is eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

This foster parent belongs to a nuclear family and does not have biological children. They learned about foster care through the government department. After they came in contact with Foster Care Society, they had regular consultations, and after understanding the concept of foster care, they were willing to have a child in foster care. Both of these parents are working and running their own businesses. With the completion of documentation and a home study by the government department, foster parents were declared fit by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

On the matching day, Priya refused to talk to potential parents, and after a few meetings, she opened up and gave answers to the questions of potential parents. Foster care society team members counselled family and children about the different behaviours of foster children and counselled children to accept the potential parents as they were agreeing on, and at last, potential parents agreed to foster the girl child.

Life in Foster Care

In the beginning, Priya had various behavioural problems, like using abusive language, not listening to elders, and answering back. Whenever her foster parents took her to a relative or friend’s house, she refused to go as she wanted to stay within the confined space at home. She was unhappy and angry and had little interest in studying, and even though she memorised everything, she refused to attempt exams.

Slowly, Priya got emotionally attached to the family. She started listening to others, and her speaking skills also improved due to her foster parents’ positive parenting. She also started paying attention to her studies. Since the foster mother runs a computer institution and Priya spent most of her time with her, she has now become very interested in computers and can use them efficiently. She likes to listen to music and draw. She has also learned discipline, respecting elders, and helping foster mothers at home. Plenty of changes have been witnessed in foster care by Foster Care Society.

Child Introduction

Atul was born to a mother who was institutionalised due to her mental health condition, receiving treatment in an institution. Following the birth of the child, due to the mother’s ongoing treatment, Atul was placed in a child care institution. The Child Welfare Committee subsequently deemed the child eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential father is a single parent residing with his parents and managing his own business. Introduced to the concept of foster care by a friend, he reached out to the Foster Care Society, expressing his interest in welcoming a child into his care through foster care. Following an initial meeting between the potential foster family and Foster Care Society, comprehensive explanations regarding all the regulations and procedures associated with foster care were provided by the Foster Care Society. Upon completing the necessary documentation and undergoing a thorough review, the potential father was deemed a fit facility by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

At the initial meeting with Atul, a foster child, the potential father expressed a strong desire to have Atul join his family as their foster child. Despite Atul being a physically fragile child, he exuded a delightful personality that easily endeared him to the potential family. Upon being welcomed into the foster family, they promptly took Atul to the hospital, ensuring he received the necessary and proper medical treatment.

Life in Foster Care

Atul was placed with this family a few months after his birth. When the foster father was at work, Atul was cared for by his foster grandparents. They attended to his needs diligently, ensuring timely meals, engaging playtime, and putting him to bed. Despite their advanced age, his grandmother would even playfully chase him when he resisted eating, managing to feed him during their playful moments.

As Atul grew older, he blossomed into a sincere and humble child. He exhibits respect for elders, assists his father at home, spends quality time with his grandparents, and even takes care of their needs by ensuring they take their medications on time. He is highly sociable, having numerous friends, excelling academically, and actively participating in outdoor activities. In the evenings, he enjoys playing with friends in the neighbourhood.

The foster grandparents played a significant role in supporting the foster father in raising Atul, despite the father being a single parent who worked. Despite his job commitments, the foster father managed to carve out time during lunch breaks, mornings, and by arriving home a little earlier in the evenings to provide ample care and attention to Atul. The Foster Care Society closely monitored the child’s development and recognised the dedicated efforts of the single foster father, which greatly influenced and positively impacted Atul’s life.

Child Introduction

Ayush, a foster child, was born to a mother who was institutionalised due to her mental health conditions. Following the child’s birth, they were placed in a child care institution since the mother was undergoing treatment at the institution. After spending two years there, the Child Welfare Committee deemed the child eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

A couple, potentially unable to have biological children due to medical reasons, led settled lives. The potential father operates a furniture business, while the potential mother works as a private teacher. They reside separately, but upon learning about foster care from a friend, they promptly reached out to a foster care society. After a detailed introduction, they posed numerous questions to the society, which patiently clarified their doubts. They began preparing their application with the supervision and help of the foster care society, supported by extensive briefings, paperwork preparation, and continued support throughout the process.

Matching Day

On the day of the match, Ayush wasn’t very talkative and seemed uncomfortable with the potential parents. The prospective father and mother made efforts to comfort him, asking open-ended questions to encourage conversation. They requested additional meetings to help Ayush become more comfortable before placement. They also brought numerous chocolates and goodies, aiming to establish a friendship and bond with him prior to placement, ensuring Ayush would feel comfortable and at ease in his foster home afterward.

Life in Foster Care

Ayush has been a consistently calm and content child right from the start, adapting effortlessly to new environments. He displays exceptional understanding and kindness towards everyone and has quickly established a strong connection with his foster family. The foster parents employ a highly positive parenting style, which has significantly contributed to Ayush’s overall development. They have instilled good values in him and taught him the distinction between right and wrong deeds. Every morning, Ayush joins his father in prayers.

He exudes playfulness and warmth, showing respect for elders and maintaining excellent discipline. His social skills are commendable, as he interacts confidently with people, effortlessly mingling and enjoying visits to relatives. Ayush displays etiquette by greeting and speaking politely to elders. Furthermore, he excels academically, being attentive to his studies and actively participating in sports.

Preferring home-cooked meals over junk food, Ayush also assists his foster mother with various household tasks. Engaging in school activities such as fancy dress competitions, storytelling, and games, he showcases discipline and a profound affection for his foster parents.

Child Introduction

Vaani, born to a mentally challenged woman in 2013 in Banswara district, was sent to a child care institution in Udaipur after birth. She lived there for approximately five years before being placed with a foster mother. Having spent the first five years of her life in the institution, she faced challenges adjusting to the new environment.

Potential Family Introduction

This potential mother, hailing from Udaipur district, lost her own mother long ago. As the eldest daughter in the household, she bore the responsibility of raising three younger siblings from an early age while caring for her father. Juggling familial duties, she set aside her own aspirations. Currently, her father, two brothers, and sister reside near her house.

The loss of her mother deeply affected her, prompting her to consider providing a home and maternal care to a child in need. Motivated by this, she reached out to the State Adoption Agency to understand the adoption process. Simultaneously, she contacted the Foster Care Society.

The team at the Foster Care Society elucidated the nuances between adoption and foster care. The single mother expressed her preference for a girl aged between 3 and 5 years. Her belief in nurturing a child through foster care, providing maternal affection, and potentially bringing joy into that child’s life fills her with profound happiness.

Matching Day

Due to the unavailability of a girl of the desired age group in Udaipur, the application was submitted in Banswara district. There, the application was matched with a foster girl named Vaani. From birth until she was 5 years old, she lived in a child care institution, which made it challenging for her to adjust to new people. However, the potential mother aided her in forming a bond.

Eventually, she happily accepted the potential mother, and after spending some time together, she began to like her and adapt to life in the family.

Life in Foster Care

It’s incredible to witness Vaani’s transformation within her foster family. Initially struggling with behavioural issues, she’s now showing signs of positive change, taking care of her younger foster sister. Despite challenges and even a diagnosis of Kleptomania, the foster mother and Foster Care Society remain committed to helping Vaani overcome her impulses and become a better individual. They’ve sought psychological testing, identified her tendencies, and are working together on a management plan tailored to address Vaani’s behavior. It’s a testament to their dedication and belief in Vaani’s potential for a brighter future.

Child Introduction

Shivi was born to a mother who was institutionalized. Due to her mother’s mental health conditions, the child was placed in a child care institution, and the Child Welfare Committee declared the child eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential parents are from a middle-class family residing with their parents. The potential father runs his own business, while the potential mother is a homemaker. They learned about foster care through a specialised adoption agency (SAA) since they didn’t have any children.

Subsequently, they initiated the application process upon discovering foster care. The government department connected them to the Foster Care Society, providing assistance throughout the process. Upon completing the required documents, the Child Welfare Committee deemed the potential family to be fit individuals. The matching process has now been proposed.

Matching Day

The potential family instantly fell in love with Shivi, a chubby and adorable foster child, upon their first meeting. Both the potential father and mother eagerly expressed their desire to welcome Shivi into their home. The potential mother is actively trying to comfort and emotionally connect with Shivi. The family has decided to meet Shivi a few more times to establish a strong bond before officially bringing her into their home. Their intention is for Shivi to develop an attachment to and remember her foster parents when she transitions to her foster home.

Life in Foster Care

In the beginning, Shivi was a very quiet child, with limited interactions. However, over time, she became very active and adapted well to the family. Shivi is particularly close to her foster father, and she also takes care of her grandparents while assisting her foster mother at home. She’s a joyful and lovely child, socially outgoing, and deeply cherished by the family, which contributes to her occasional stubbornness. Shivi enjoys dancing and talking, often taking morning walks with her foster father and engaging actively with relatives and other family members. Academically, Shivi is an average student, but she excels in various co-curricular activities like dancing, singing, drawing, and storytelling.

Child Introduction

Parth was born to a mother who was institutionalized. Due to her mother’s mental health conditions, the child was moved to a child care institution, and the Child Welfare Committee declared him eligible for foster care.

Potential family introduction

The potential family belonged to a middle-class nuclear family. The potential father worked in the private sector, often out of town, while the potential mother was a teacher at a private school. She decided to leave her job when the foster child would be in their home, as she wanted to dedicate her full time to caring for the child. The family became aware of foster care through a former member of the Child Welfare Committee in their district. This individual educated the couple on foster care and referred them to the Foster Care Society. With society’s support, they successfully completed the application process and were delighted to be deemed a suitable family for foster care.

Matching Day

At the time of the match, Parth was only one year and five months old. Unfortunately, he fractured his hand while playing at the child care institution. Despite this, the foster parents wholeheartedly accepted him, showing no hesitation regarding the child’s health. They were in a state of eagerness to take the child home as soon as possible, aiming to provide love and care.

Life in Foster Care

After placement, the foster parents took extra care of Parth. They assisted him with tasks such as bathing, getting dressed, eating, and playing together. At one point, he also developed an ear infection, and the foster parents promptly took him to the hospital, initiating treatment without delay. The foster mother is particularly attentive to his health, always taking precautions beforehand. Additionally, they regularly inform the Foster Care Society for further suggestions regarding the child’s welfare.

The foster family belongs to a middle-class nuclear family. The foster father works for a company, while the foster mother used to be a teacher at a school. However, after Parth came into their home, she left her job to devote herself to his care.

Parth is excelling in both studies and co-curricular activities. He is learning good habits at home, consistently greeting elders, and displaying a joyful demeanor. He is quite social, boasting numerous friends both at school and in the neighborhood. In the evenings, he engages in playtime with his neighbourhood friends and exhibits an outgoing nature.

Child Introduction

Sonu was found missing when he was 3 years old. Police and government authorities tried to find his parents through the missing portal and word-of-mouth publicity, but there was no success. After trying so long, the Child Welfare Committee declared the child eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential father is a civil engineer, and the potential mother is a Hindi and Sanskrit teacher. Potential families got to know about foster care through word-of-mouth publicity, and then they vanished for a year. They thought about it and came after a year by clearing their minds to go further for foster care.

potential family reach to foster care society, and foster care society helped them clear each dout so many times, and then foster care society helped them in preparing documents, submitting files for further processing, etc.

Matching Day

The potential parents spoke to the child very politely and made numerous attempts to establish a bond with him. After several meetings, the family responded affirmatively regarding the child. With the support of the Child Welfare Committee, the foster child was successfully placed with the family.

Life in Foster Care

During the initial days after placement, Sonu received special attention from his foster family.

They diligently monitored his habits and routines, ensuring his well-being, even during sleep, to ascertain if he needed anything or felt lonely or fearful. They paid careful attention to his behaviour.

His foster mother regularly recited mantras with him, and Sonu learned various religious chants and songs such as Hanuman Chalisa, Gayatri Mantra, Durga Aarti, and Ganesh Aarti. Each morning, after bathing, Sonu and his foster father recite 0063 of the Hanuman Chalisa without the aid of any book. His strong religious beliefs were nurtured by his foster parents, who also educated him about various festivals like Deepawali, Shivratri, Krishna Janmashtmi, and Holi.

The foster grandparents shared a deep love for Sonu and imparted important life lessons, teaching him values such as sharing, accepting mistakes, and speaking respectfully to both younger and older individuals. Sonu shared a particularly strong bond with his foster grandfather.

During vacations, the family often visited the grandparents in Bhilwara, and sometimes the grandparents would also visit. Sonu eagerly looked forward to these visits and cherished spending time with his grandparents. Foster mothers shared bedtime stories, which sparked Sonu’s interest in reading. Sony paid particular attention to the morals of these stories, which also helped improve his Hindi vocabulary. Sonu developed a fondness for reading books.

Sonu actively engages in school activities, excels in studies, and enjoys playing outdoor games. He especially loves eating paneer and riding his bicycle every evening.

Sonu has developed a deep understanding and thoughtfulness towards the people around him because of the balanced approach taken by his foster parents.

Child Introduction

Yash was abandoned by his parents. He was discovered injured on the street with a wound at the back of his head, and the police took him to a government hospital for proper treatment. Concurrently, they presented the case to the Child Welfare Committee. After recovery, the Child Welfare Committee ordered the placement of the child in a child care institution and deemed him eligible for foster care.

Potential Child Introduction

A potential mother, a homemaker, aged 52, and a potential father, a government teacher, aged 54, learned about foster care through a former member of the Child Welfare Committee in their district. This member provided the couple with education on the concept of foster care and then directed them to the Foster Care Society. With ongoing support from the Foster Care Society, they navigated the application process and were overjoyed to be deemed a suitable family for foster care.

Matching Day

At the time of the matching process, Yash didn’t know how to speak. When he needed something, he communicated using sign language and gestures. Yash lacked vocabulary and had no knowledge of identifying words, as he was never taught these in his childhood. Despite not speaking any words, he attempted communication through gestures. The potential parents understood his situation and wholeheartedly desired to foster the child. The potential mother expressed her commitment to providing him with adequate time, mentioning that within 6 months, he would adapt to behaving like a child of his age. She enthusiastically agreed to take him into their foster home as soon as possible.

Life in Foster Care

After Yash was placed with his foster parents, remarkable progress was observed in his behaviour within a few months. Initially non-verbal, he began learning words and started forming short sentences while living with his foster parents. Their dedicated efforts significantly contributed to the four-year-old child’s development. From a point of being unable to speak or answer, he progressed to speaking and even learned to write the English alphabet and count numbers.

Yash has become highly interactive and actively participates in school. Initially struggling with the adjustment to school and being somewhat reserved, his foster father, a government teacher, provided invaluable support in his studies. Initially reluctant to go to school, Yash often cried due to his attachment to his foster parents. To ease this transition, his foster parents accompanied him to school, with his foster mother staying nearby while he studied.

To aid his learning, his father procured chart papers displaying English alphabets, Hindi words, and counting numbers, as well as pictures of animals and birds, for Yash to learn through observation and practice.

During the COVID pandemic, when schools were closed, Yash’s foster parents diligently conducted home-based teaching sessions to ensure he didn’t fall behind in his studies. Through their nurturing approach, Yash made significant academic progress. He has become sociable, forming many friendships, and enjoys cycling in the neighbourhood in the evenings.

His foster father remains actively involved in Yash’s academic journey, providing consistent support. Meanwhile, his foster mother, displaying great care, engages in outdoor activities and games with him. Both foster parents are dedicated to ensuring Yash has a brighter future through their hard work and commitment.

Child introduction

Ashwin was born to a mother who was institutionalised due to her mental health conditions. Following his birth, he was moved to a child care institution, and the Child Welfare Committee declared him eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential father works in the private sector, while the potential mother is a homemaker. A potential family is located in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Due to health issues, they were unable to have their own child. Upon learning about foster care, they expressed their willingness to bring a foster child into their home and visited multiple times to gain an understanding of the scheme.

The Foster Care Society supported them throughout the entire process, and the placement was made in Udaipur district. All family members and foster grandparents were excited about welcoming the child into their home.

Matching Day

Ashwin was only a few months old when the potential parents were matched with him. They were eager and delighted to foster a young child, expressing their excitement upon meeting Ashwin. They were keen to foster him, given his young age, believing that his adjustment wouldn’t require much effort. Their enthusiasm led them to say yes to Foster Ashwin during their very first meeting.

Life in foster care

Ashwin has been a consistently cheerful child since the beginning, displaying high levels of activity and cheerfulness. Upon arriving at the foster home, he immediately formed an attachment to the family, demonstrating sociability and adeptness in interacting with others. After a few months, the family organized a significant event to celebrate his homecoming, resembling a birthday party, which was enjoyed by everyone. Gradually, Ashwin formed emotional connections with both his foster parents and foster grandparents.

In 2022, Ashwin underwent hernia surgery, and the family provided exceptional care and support throughout his recovery and updated the child welfare committee and foster care society about it.

They remain highly attentive to his health needs. Ashwin exhibits great understanding, actively listening to his parents and displaying respect for his elders. The Foster Care Society has monitored the child since his placement. He is growing up in a positive family environment and is living happily. Ashwin excels in his studies and is making significant progress.

Child Introduction

This is the story of two foster children, Karan and his younger brother, Ram. Their father, a washerman, worked near the government hospital. Karan’s mother passed away in 2015, shortly after Ram was born. Coming from a poor family and with no one else to care for them, their father left both children near the hospital premises.

Their father struggled with alcohol addiction, leaving Karan, as the elder brother, to look after Ram, who was only 4 years old at the time. Karan began begging for food and money from hospital visitors to provide for his brother. Sometimes they went without food, and sometimes Karan was asked to smoke a cigarette in exchange for meals. Desperate for necessities, Karan resorted to stealing. His father would take the money Karan earned from begging and stealing to fuel his alcohol addiction. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his father’s drinking habit worsened, leading him to lose his laundry work.

Amidst the pandemic, food distribution was happening daily at the hospital, organized by police officers and social workers. One day, while collecting food for himself and his brother, Karan was discovered. Both children were then brought before the Child Welfare Committee, which subsequently took them under their protection.

Potential Family Introduction

The police officer involved in the case expressed concern about the future of these children and sought guidance from the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) on how to assist them. In order to proceed legally, the CWC recommended opting for the foster care scheme. They advised the foster carers to seek guidance from the Foster Care Society.

The Foster Care Society provided an explanation of foster care, its regulations and procedures, and the distinctions between foster care and adoption. During discussions, the foster family recognised the children’s need for family-based care. The carers affirmed their understanding of the rules and expressed readiness to take the children into foster care, committing to providing a family-based environment.

Following this decision, the Foster Care Society’s team conducted a home visit and interacted with all family members. The biological children of the prospective foster parents were excited to welcome two new foster brothers into their family.

After the home visit, the Foster Care Society assessed that the foster carer’s home and surroundings were in the best interest of the foster children. They concluded that the carer was capable of providing for and enhancing the future of the foster children. The society’s team assisted the family in organising all necessary documents as required by the Foster Care scheme and provided technical support to both the foster family and relevant government departments throughout the legal procedures.

Life in Foster Care

After the foster family welcomed both children under the Foster Care scheme, some troubling habits and misbehaviour emerged in Karan and Ram. These included habits like consuming tobacco, using inappropriate language, and engaging in secretive behaviour, which they continued even within their new family.

The Foster Care Society provided counselling for the foster children regularly. Simultaneously, the foster family made gradual efforts to address and change these behaviors. Through the joint efforts of the Foster Care Society and the foster carers, remarkable transformations were witnessed in the children’s habits, speech, and overall lifestyle. Ram, who had never experienced a mother’s love, now receives the nurturing care and affection he lacked from his foster mother, fulfilling a vital need for a child. Additionally, the foster children have developed loving relationships with the biological children of their foster carers.

Due to their challenging prior circumstances, these foster children faced developmental delays. The Foster Care Society’s team actively supported the foster family in helping the children catch up with their developmental milestones. The biological children were also involved and encouraged to facilitate the foster children’s educational journey, aiming to improve their academic progress. Presently, both foster children are thriving in a renowned city school, displaying keen interest in their studies.

The Foster Care Society continues to assist the foster family in managing changes in the foster children’s behavior. Regular reports are provided to keep concerned departments updated on the progress and well-being of these foster children.

Child Introduction

Ankita went missing when she was 1.5 years old. Despite efforts by the police, government authorities, and the missing portal, as well as publicity, her parents couldn’t be located. She lived in a child care institution as a foster child for almost 5 years. After extensive attempts, the Child Welfare Committee declared her eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential father works as a manager at a private bank, while the potential mother is a homemaker. They hail from the Bhilwara district. They learned about foster care through word-of-mouth from a CWC member. Upon discovering this, the potential family approached the foster care society, which extensively explained the rules, regulations, and process multiple times. The foster care society also assisted them in preparing the necessary documents, submitting the file, and facilitating the placement process.

Matching Day

The potential parents spoke to the child very politely and made numerous attempts to build a bond with her. They visited Udaipur several times to meet foster children, aiming to establish a connection with her before placement. After several meetings, the family positively responded regarding the child. With the backing of the Child Welfare Committee, the foster child was successfully placed with the family at the age of 6.5 years.

Life in Foster Care

During the initial days after placement, Ankita received special attention from her foster family. She became more attached to her foster mother since she had lived for 5 years in a child care institution among females. Initially, she didn’t communicate much with her father. The family diligently observed her habits and routines, ensuring her well-being, even during sleep, to make sure she felt comfortable, not lonely or afraid. They paid close attention to her behaviour.

Her foster mother paid extra attention to Ankita’s hygiene, especially when she arrived with a lot of dirt and insects in her hair. Regularly, the foster mother took care of her hygiene and taught her about personal cleanliness.

Ankita actively engaged in school activities, although she struggled academically. Her foster parents dedicated extra time daily to help her with her studies and tried to spark her interest in learning. She particularly loved eating daal chawal and playing outside every evening.

Child Introduction

Aryan was admitted to a child care institution when he was only 5 days old because his mother was unable to care for him due to her ongoing treatment for mental health issues at a care center. Understanding the significance of offering a family-oriented environment for the child’s comprehensive development, the Child Welfare Committee made the decision to enrol him in the foster care programme. The committee deemed him eligible for foster care, prioritising his welfare and overall growth.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential parents both hold occupations; the potential mother serves in the police department, while the potential father works in the private sector. They reside in a government-allotted house. Upon a visit from the Foster Care Society, it was observed that this potential family maintains a positive home environment, possesses strong mutual understanding, and holds a good level of education. The society concluded that placing the child in this family would be in the child’s best interest. The Foster Care Society thoroughly explained all the rules, regulations, and pertinent information regarding foster care to the family, who comprehended and willingly accepted these guidelines, expressing their intent to proceed with the application process. Following an assessment of all the documents and reports and an in-person meeting with the family, the Child Welfare Committee deemed the potential family to be suitable guardians for the child.

Matching day

The potential parents met Aryan for the first time and were immediately taken by his endearing and adorable nature due to his young age. They swiftly formed an attachment to the child and expressed a strong desire to foster him as quickly as possible. Aryan, being very young, easily transitioned to the potential family, adapting well and integrating into their home. The potential parents were keen to provide him with all the love, care, and affection that he rightfully deserves.

Life in Foster Care

Aryan’s foster parents, due to their work commitments, initially spent the most time with him. When the foster father transitioned to working from home, the foster mother adjusted her schedule to ensure she was present for Aryan’s meals and afternoon nap. Additionally, they hired a full-time caretaker to accompany Aryan. With Aryan’s arrival, the foster grandmother began visiting the family regularly, engaging with the child and supporting the parents in caring for him. Despite both parents working, they prioritise being there for Aryan, ensuring his well-being and development. The foster grandmother actively plays and looks after Aryan in the absence of his parents. The child receives abundant love and affection from the foster family, contributing to his well-rounded development suitable for his age.

Child Introduction

Foster Child Radha is a sixteen-year-old girl residing in the Udaipur district. Her biological parents passed away when she was young, and for the last six years, she had been in a child care institution. After her parent’s deaths, she lived with relatives who treated her poorly, forcing her to do extensive work. Consequently, Radha left her relatives house and sought refuge at the child care  institution.Upon meeting with the Foster Care Society, she expressed her reluctance to return to her relatives place. Subsequently, she was introduced to the foster care program. Encouraged by her friend and following counselling sessions with the Foster Care Society, she expressed her desire to join a new family, stating that her biological relatives hadn’t taken care of her for five years.

Potential Family Introduction

A potential father, an engineer specialising in ATM machines, and a potential mother who works as a homemaker faced challenges conceiving due to their physical disabilities. Despite their efforts, they were unable to conceive, and their attempts to adopt were thwarted due to health concerns regarding the matched newborn child. Upon discovering the foster care system through a neighbouring foster family, they contacted the Foster Care Society, expressing their desire to welcome a 7–10-year-old boy into their home. The Foster Care Society then introduced them to Radha, and they expressed their willingness to meet her.

Matching Day

During the initial visit, Radha became emotional upon meeting the family. Following their conversation, the foster mother remarked,Radha looks just like me when I was in my childhood. Recognising Radha’s need for a loving and supportive family, the family decided to welcome her, believing they could offer her happiness, care, and support.

The Foster Care Society team conducted a home visit, explaining all the regulations of foster care. They observed that both parents were capable of managing their tasks independently. Furthermore, the team found the family’s attitudes, behaviour, and household environment to be in the best interest of the child. Subsequently, the FCS team assisted the family in preparing the necessary documents required for processing the application.

Upon completion of the legal and documentation procedures, the Child Welfare Committee and relevant department approved the prospective family as a suitable fit and sanctioned the application for transferring Radha to the foster family.

Life in Foster Care

At the time of placement, Radha experienced deep emotions. However, the family warmly embraced Radha, introducing her affectionately to all family members, relatives, and friends. Initially, Radha faced adjustment challenges and appeared reserved and shy, often refraining from interacting or answering questions.

The foster family actively supported Radha in pursuing her wishes, aided by her friend’s encouragement to embrace happiness within this new family and focus on her studies. With this support and motivation, significant behavioural changes were observed as Radha began to communicate and adapt to life within the foster family. The Foster Care Society also provided motivation and counselling to aid the family in fostering a better understanding. Gradually, over a span of 9–10 months, Radha formed an emotional bond with the foster family.

However, when Radha was only six months away from turning 18, the foster family encountered numerous problems. The foster father lost his job, and during that period, the foster mother was hospitalised, leading to significant financial strain. To manage daily expenses, the family had to borrow a substantial sum from society. Consequently, the foster father approached the Foster Care Society to seek a better family for Radha.

Upon this request, the Foster Care Society contacted Radha’s extended family. With the Child Welfare Committee’s permission, the Foster Care Society reunited Radha with her extended family. Radha has settled well into this new environment and is very content there. The Foster Care Society ensured Radha adjusted comfortably within the family, receiving all the love and care she deserved.

Child Introduction

Shivam, a foster child, hails from an extremely unhealthy family environment. His father’s aggression and his mother’s abandonment, followed by her remarriage, left him exposed to violence, leading to severe physical harm at times. Amid the COVID period, Shivam fled his home, seeking refuge in a nearby village, where a compassionate family discovered him sleeping on the streets and offered him shelter. However, they were advised to report the situation to the government authorities, prompting Shivam’s placement under the care of the Child Welfare Committee, eventually leading him to a child care institution.

Despite being sheltered, Shivam expressed a strong desire to return to the family that had initially taken him in. During his time at the institution, his health began deteriorating, leading to a medical examination that revealed he was suffering from tuberculosis. Insistent on reuniting with the family that had provided him solace, Shivam conveyed his adamant wish to the Child Welfare Committee.

After thorough discussions with Shivam, the Committee opted to connect him with the Foster Care programme, recognising its potential to positively impact both his physical and mental well-being.

Potential Family Introduction

The Foster Care Society reached out to the family that had sheltered Shivam during the COVID period, finding them somewhat interested in welcoming him into their home, especially considering their lack of children and their recent conception after meeting Shivam. Despite their financial constraints, the family expressed a deep desire to care for Shivam, aiming to provide him with the love and affection he had long been deprived of. Their emotional connection to Shivam, shared community ties, and the child’s comfort with them further solidified their willingness to embrace him.

The Foster Care Society meticulously briefed the family on the regulations and requirements of foster care, transparently sharing information about Shivam’s health and medical condition. Upon learning about this, the family did not hesitate to accept Shivam into their care. Their joy at being a part of the programme and reuniting with Shivam was evident. With the unwavering support of the Foster Care Society, all necessary documentation and formalities were completed. Subsequently, the Child Welfare Committee and the District Child Protection Unit granted approval for Shivam to be placed with this foster family.

Life in Foster Care

The family is overjoyed to have Shivam back, returning him to a nurturing environment where parental love and care abound. The foster parents have been diligently attending to his needs, ensuring his well-being in every possible manner, and keeping a close check on his health. Shivam’s health has notably improved under their loving support. They are steadfast in monitoring his medication regimen and ensuring proper nutrition.

Following Shivam’s placement, the foster mother gave birth to a healthy baby girl. Shivam has begun his schooling and takes delight in playing with his newfound little sister.

Child Introduction

The foster girl child was born to a mother who was institutionalized. After birth, the child was placed in a child care institution. The mother was unable to care for the child due to her ongoing treatment for mental health problems. Consequently, the girl became eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The foster mother, a single parent, had already taken in an eight-year-old daughter under foster care when she welcomed the four-year-old foster girl into her home. Over time, they have lived together happily. Desiring to provide her elder foster daughter with a younger sibling and believing it would be beneficial, the foster mother, without external support, cares for the girl and remains committed to aiding society’s welfare by extending her support to children who lack maternal love, affection, and care. She has expressed her wish to the Foster Care Society to foster another girl child.

After a few months, the Foster Care Society informed the mother about a little girl who was in need of care and protection. The foster mother expressed her willingness to care for this 4-month-old baby girl. With the support of the Child Welfare Committee, the foster mother, a single parent, was deemed fit to take care of the child. Having experience as a foster mother, she was familiar with all the rules and regulations and was directed to complete all necessary legal procedures.

Life in Foster Care

With the assistance of the Foster Care Society, the child was placed with this foster mother, who also had an existing foster sister in the family. The older foster sister has shown great affection and love towards her little sibling. She actively engages and plays with her, while the foster mother provides all the necessary love and care the child has been missing. By taking on responsibilities such as feeding, cleaning, and timely vaccinations, the foster mother is attentively nurturing the child’s health and development. She regularly updates the Foster Care Society about the child’s progress. All family members are equally devoted to loving and caring for the little girl. Foster Care Society will continue to monitor the child’s development and health and support the family with any other needs.

Child Introduction

Pihu was born to a mother with mental challenges and was found on the street when she was 1 ½ years old. Due to her mother’s mental health condition, she was placed in an institution for treatment. The Child Care Institution cared for her for 4 years, but it became evident that she needed a family-based environment for her overall development. Consequently, under the guidelines of the Vatsalya Yojana (Foster Care Programme), the Child Welfare Committee deemed the child eligible for foster care. Foster Care Society began the search to find an eligible foster family for her, and during the search, they connected with foster parents interested in joining the Vatsalya Yojana (Foster Care programme).

Potential Family Introduction

The potential parents come from a middle-class family and reside with the potential grandparents. The potential father runs his own business, while the potential mother is a homemaker. These potential parents were seeking to fulfil their desire for a child since they couldn’t have children of their own due to a medical condition. The Foster Care Society explained the process and required documentation from them. Upon submission of the home study report by the government department, the potential parents were deemed fit individuals to proceed with fostering.

Matching Day

Initially, the potential parents expressed a preference for a male child, but as no male child in the preferred age group was available, they were presented with the option of a girl child. When the potential parents met Pihu at the Child Care Institution for the matching process, the potential father became deeply emotional and decided to have Pihu as their foster child.

Pihu was joyful and willingly embraced them as her foster parents. She is a cheerful and smiling child, and during the family’s second meeting with her, she immediately expressed her desire to go with these foster parents. After obtaining permission from the Child Welfare Committee, Pihu was placed with her new foster parents.

Life in foster care

The foster family warmly welcomed the child into her new home, where the entire family gathered to meet her. She was introduced to her foster grandparents and other relatives. She expressed happiness and has begun addressing her foster parents as “mummy-papa.” The foster child learns to wake up around 5 a.m. by herself, brushes her teeth, and bathes herself. She does her homework by herself and, in the evening, plays with friends from the neighbourhood.

Although the foster parents are generally content with the foster child, they do have a few concerns. Pihu refuses to eat certain foods and tends to be selective with her diet. Additionally, she doesn’t heed instructions from others, prefers to work according to her own choices, exhibits stubborn behaviour, and has an inclination to inspect and touch new items. Furthermore, Pihu’s school teachers complain about her inability to sit still and her tendency to disrupt class. The foster father often indulges her, stating that she is young and will learn as she grows.

The foster parents both pamper and attempt to instill discipline in the child. The Foster Care Society conducts guidance sessions with Pihu and her foster parents to address these behavioural challenges, and after a few sessions, some positive changes have been identified.

Child Introduction

Rashi was discovered wandering the streets at just 1 year and 6 months old by a man who waited for hours in hopes that her family would come for her, but no one arrived. After an extended wait, the man took the child to the police station for an investigation. It was determined that she had either lost her family or been abandoned by them.

Although the exact circumstances remained unknown, since she was missing, the police officer uploaded her data and photo to a missing person database in hopes of reuniting her with her family. Despite extensive efforts over 2–3 years, neither her family nor any relatives were found. Consequently, the child welfare committee proposed connecting the child with foster care to provide her with a loving family environment. Following this order, the Foster Care Society began searching for a suitable family who could offer this child the nurturing and care she deserved.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential family comprises three members: a potential mother and her potential grandparents. The potential grandmother is a retired professor from Delhi University, while the potential grandfather is a retired Army Colonel. The potential mother holds a doctorate in music from Delhi University. They are a well-educated family and offer promising prospects for the foster child’s better future. The potential mother, being the only child without a companion at home, and with the belief that raising a child would be a benevolent act, the potential grandparents were enthusiastic about providing a child with a family and future. Additionally, it would allow the foster mother to experience the joys of having a child of her own.

Upon visiting the Foster Care Society to inquire about foster care, the potential family received a detailed explanation regarding all the programme’s regulations and procedures. After having all their queries addressed, they expressed their willingness to welcome a child under foster care. Subsequently, upon completing the necessary documentation, the child welfare committee deemed the potential mother suitable for fostering.

Matching day

The potential family initially preferred to foster a boy within the age range of 3 to 5 years old. However, due to the unavailability of a boy at that time, they were informed of the situation and asked if they would consider fostering a girl instead. Without hesitation, they expressed their interest in meeting a girl child. Upon meeting Rashi, they decided to welcome her as their foster child. Following the directive of the child welfare committee, Rashi was placed with a foster family.

Life in foster care

Upon Rashi’s arrival at the foster home, numerous relatives warmly welcomed her, presenting her with an array of gifts such as toys, clothes, and sweets. The child seamlessly integrated into the family, forging strong bonds with the foster grandparents and foster mother, who harbour deep affection for her. Enrolled in an English-medium school by her foster mother, Rashi received attentive guidance from her foster grandparents, who actively aided her in learning the alphabet and counting.

Rashi, in turn, exhibited a caring demeanour towards her grandparents, attentively tending to their needs. Despite a smooth initial transition, a shift in behaviour surfaced—she began displaying frequent tantrums, quick anger, and unexplained bouts of crying. Consulting a psychologist revealed that Rashi was seeking additional attention, likely stemming from being pampered by her foster mother. Efforts are underway to address this behaviour and provide support to the family during this adjustment period.

The Foster Care Society diligently monitors households housing foster children, offering consistent support. Additionally, foster parents provide detailed monthly reports on the children’s developmental progress while engaging in discussions about their future.

Coming Soon

Child Introduction

Aman was abandoned by a lady when he was just 1.5 months old in a residence within the sector. Subsequently, he was brought before the Child Welfare Committee, which declared him eligible for foster care, categorising him as a Child in Need of Care and Protection (CNCP). The committee ordered that she be relocated to a child care institution for proper care. At the age of 1.5 years, the Committee decided to move him to Mother Teresa Ashram, where he resided for nearly 2.5 years.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential father runs his own auto parts business, while the potential mother is a homemaker. Due to health issues, they were unable to have a child of their own. Upon learning about foster care through E-Mitra, they expressed their desire to foster a child.

They contacted the foster care society for a better understanding of the scheme and further processing. family actively participated in all virtual meetings organised by the foster care society to gain a deeper understanding of the foster care scheme. The Foster Care Society provided continuous support to the potential family throughout the entire process, including documentation, file submission, and placement.

Matching Day

The foster child was naturally outgoing and affectionate from the start. On the day of their initial meeting with the foster parents, the child immediately addressed them as “Mummy and Papa” and asked, “Why didn’t you come to take me home? These words deeply moved the potential mother and potential father, stirring strong emotions within them. They made the heartfelt decision to not meet other children and chose to foster Aman as their foster child.

Life in Foster Care

Aman was placed in foster care with the support of the Child Welfare Committee within a week. On the day of his placement, the foster family brought a variety of sweets to express their joy and gratitude to the government stakeholders and FCS team. Additionally, they purchased new clothes, toys, and chocolates for the foster children. The foster family warmly welcomed the children by gifting a gold chain to each of them. Aman received visits from his extended family, who showered him with numerous gifts and blessings.

The foster parents are dedicated to providing Aman with a nutritious diet, including three servings of milk per day, soaked almonds, fruits, and green vegetables. They prioritise calcium-rich foods as Aman has been prescribed calcium supplements due to physical weakness, aiming to aid his recovery through natural, healthy food. Aman has developed a strong emotional attachment to his foster parents.

The Foster Care Society has been closely monitoring Aman since his placement through video calls and occasional visits for supervision. He is thriving in a positive family environment and living happily. While Aman’s academic performance is average, the foster parents are putting their best efforts into improving his education, ensuring that he learns new things every day.

Child Introduction

Akshay (Changed Name) was about 1 year and 2 months old when his biological mother died due to some physical ailment. After the death of his mother, Akshay was with his biological father. In the next 6 months, the father observed some physical and mental issues in Akshay and was not able to take proper care of Akshay accordingly. As the biological father was not able to take care of Akshay properly, he presented Akshay to the Child Welfare Committee, and Akshay is in the category of CNCP children, so the Akshay Welfare Committee placed Akshay in a child care institution. Officials at the CCI got his checkup done, and Akshay was diagnosed with developmental delays and hearing impairment issues. On further diagnosis, Akshay was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect physical movement and muscle tone or posture. It’s caused by damage that occurs to the immature, developing brain, most often before birth.

Journey from CCI to Foster Home

From the first day, the health worker at the same child care institution started taking care of Akshay, and Akshay also got very attached to the health worker. The health worker and her biological daughter started liking Akshay and developed a soft spot for him. As there is no proper home for cerebral palsy children in the city, the Child Welfare Committee of Bangalore decided to shift Akshay to Jaipur. The health worker accompanied Akshay to Jaipur, but Akshay was reluctant to leave her when she was returning, and the child started crying. So the health worker bought him back, and then this health worker decided to take Akshay to her home and thus contacted the Child Welfare Committee. The Child Welfare Committee suggested she take Akshay into foster care. She contacted the Foster Care Society, and with the support of the Foster Care Society, she started preparing her documents, and in a month, she completed all the requirements. With the technical support of the Foster Care Society and in the presence of the Child Welfare Committee and the protection officer of the District Child Protection Unit, Akshay is placed with the health worker.

Changing life in foster care

This foster mother is a single mother, and she has a 12-year-old biological daughter. In the initial days, a foster child cannot move by himself; he lies on the bed, and his routine activities have been done only on the bed; he is not able to do any movement. The care and love given by the foster mother and her daughter brought so many improvements to the foster child.

During month-long monitoring, the Foster Care Society has seen so many changes in foster children. Gradually, the foster child got adjusted to the family and learned so many novel things in a short time. He can grasp things, walk with the help of a walker, and eat small bites by himself. He knows everyone in his family, and if someone outsider comes, he becomes silent. He walks through the house with a walker. Foster children started expressing themselves through various movements. When he goes out, he waves his hand to everyone. He slowly gets down from the bed. Akshay can speak a few words, like Jija (sister), to her sister and papa, Kaka. His tongue trembles if he tries to say something, but he understands good, bad, right, and wrong things. Foster Care Society is very attentive to the monitoring and supervision of the foster child. And monthly, the foster parents give all the details about the child’s development and also discuss the future plan. Living with this foster family is in the best interest of Akshay, and the foster mother is trying every possible step to help the foster child improve his health.

Foster Care Society visits the family and takes counselling sessions as per the needs of the foster mother, her daughter, and the foster child. Foster Care Society connected foster families with the benefits of the Vatsalya Yojna Scheme as well as with sponsorships.

Child Introduction

At the age of three, Rohan (a changed name) was reported to Child Line because he was begging on the streets. The police department linked this child to the missing children’s portal. When this case came to the Child Welfare Committee’s attention, they asked the police and Child Line team to search for this child’s biological parents. As of this investigation, this child is eligible for foster care. Through CCI, the couple from Udaipur got to know about the Foster Care Programme. The couple approached the Foster Care Society to learn more about the programme and process.

Potential Family Introduction

The couple from Udaipur district thought of raising a child under foster care (Vatsalya Scheme). The couple is 61 years old and 54 years old. A potential father is retired from the government department and has always been working as a social worker in society. A potential mother says that so far she has raised many children in the neighborhood, and  now she has taken this step to improve the life of one child. The way we raise children, the child will develop as we instill values in the child.

This couple reached out to the Foster Care Society to understand the scheme, and as soon as they cleared their doubts, they started preparing their documents, and the foster care society supported them in the entire process of completing documents. The foster family prepared documents in 1 month, and after that, the foster care society started finding a suitable match for them.

Matching Day

On matching day, Potential Father became very emotional after seeing Rohan and decided to take him home, and he asked Rohan, Did you call me father? And when Rohan called him father, he became affectionate and experienced attachment with him in the first meeting. Potential Mother also became emotional. Potential families visited Rohan three times before the placement. And take so many gifts and chocolates for him and try to comfort him so the child can recognise them and feel comfortable after placement.

Life in Foster Care

The foster family took him to temples before welcoming him home, and the foster family also made prior arrangements at home to make the child comfortable, like stocking biscuits, chocolates, chips, and other things for foster children. Foster children were in 1st grade at the Child Care Institute after placement. Foster parents admitted him to Arena English medium school. After a few days, parents found out that the foster child is very weak in academics; he doesn’t know anything, so they decided to repeat classes and get him admitted to the lower class.

To improve a foster child’s knowledge, foster parents pasted chart paper on the wall, taught him daily by pointing at charts, and then sent him to a nearby tutoring class. A foster child is very fond of playing and cycling. In the evening, Foster Child plays with the children in the colony. The foster father bought a bicycle for the foster child to play with his colony friends.

Foster mother takes a proper check on Rohan’s health and gives him some nutritious things to eat every 2 hours, as she thinks children burn lots of energy, so they need something filling every time. The foster mother herself gives baths to the foster child every day because Rohan is not taking baths properly.

The Monthly Foster Care Society has been monitoring and supervising foster families and Rohan. And the Foster Care Society is connected regularly with the Foster family and Rohan as per their requirements. Foster Care Society is giving proper counselling sessions to foster families.

The Foster family is taking good care of Rohan and providing him with love, care, etc.

Child Introduction

Ishu was born to an unwed mother who was only 13 years old at the time of his birth. Unfortunately, his biological mother passed away after giving birth to him. The family of the biological mother chose not to care for the child and surrendered him to a child care institution, making him legally available for adoption. However, due to the father’s imprisonment for a POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences) case, the Child Welfare Committee re-evaluated Ishu’s situation and decided to place him in the category of foster care instead of arranging an adoption.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential mother is a single mother and a 1st-grade teacher at the central level in NCERT. Upon contacting the Foster Care Society and grasping the concept of foster care, she received assistance from the society throughout the application process. Subsequently, the potential mother applied for foster care.

Matching Day

On the day of the match, the foster child readily bonded with the potential mother, continuously smiling upon meeting her. The potential mother’s first words upon seeing the foster child were,Please, allow me to foster the child today itself; I am eager to begin caring for him as soon as possible.”

Life in Foster Care

Within 2–3 days after the matching day, the potential mother was joined by a six-month-old boy named “Ishu. The foster mother’s family wholeheartedly supported her in integrating the child into their home. They affirmed that minimal adjustments were necessary given the child’s tender age. Ishu was introduced to a new environment and lifestyle and enveloped in familial love.

The foster mother, despite being a central-level teacher, diligently attended to Ishu’s needs and sought medical attention for his ailments, such as a cold, cough, diarrhoea, and stomach ache, through paediatric prescriptions.

While at work, the foster mother entrusted Ishu’s care to the foster grandmother, an experienced carer who had previously raised her own children and grandchildren. The Foster Care Society remained updated through video calls, where the foster family consistently shared videos and pictures of Ishu’s daily life and experiences.

Child Introduction

When Reena was 6 months old, a lady abandoned her in a residence in the sector. Reena was presented to the Child Welfare Committee, and the Child Welfare Committee declared the child eligible for foster care and declared her a CNCP (Child in Need of Care and Protection) category child. And ordered to move the child to a child care institution to take care of the child. And when the child was 1.5 years old, the Child Welfare Committee decided to move the child to Mother Teresa Ashram, where the child lived for almost 4 years.

Potential family introduction

A potential father and mother both work in the private sector. They didn’t have their own child because of health issues. After they learned about foster care from E-Mitra, they expressed their willingness to have a child under foster care and visited the Foster Care Society twice to gain a better understanding of the foster care scheme. Foster Care Society supported them during the entire process of preparing documents, submitting files, and placement, which was done by the Udaipur Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

Foster child is fun-loving from the beginning. On the day of matching, when potential parents meet Foster child, Foster child was not talking much because she was feeling shy and nervous. She answered every question asked by potential family members in a very low tone. Potential parents want to get the child’s medical done because they want to foster healthy children, and the FCS team supported the family in getting the medical done. Medical reports proved that the child is healthy, and after a long discussion with FCS, the potential family agreed to foster the girl child.

Life in Foster Care

On June 5, 2023, with the support of the Child Welfare Committee, the child was placed with the foster family when she was 5 years and 6 months old. On the day of placement, the foster family brings lots of sweets for government stakeholders, a cake for children’s at the child care institute, sweets for the FCS team to express their happiness, and a new dress and chocolates for foster children. The foster family warmly welcomes the foster children by having a cake-cutting ceremony at the foster home with neighbourhood children to comfort the child in a new place. Extended family also visits foster children, brings lots of gifts for her, and gives her blessings.

Foster parents are trying to feed her healthy foods, like three times milk in a day, soaked almonds, fruits, and green vegetables, and give her calcium-rich food because foster children are prescribed calcium supplements because foster children are very weak, and the foster family is trying to recover foster children through natural, healthy food.

Reena wants her friend Kajal to be with her, who lives in CCI, as she is feeling alone at the foster home, and whenever she is free, she misses Kajal, and she started crying. She is emotionally attached to Kajal, as she spent 4 years with him at CCI. She is facing separation anxiety, and she used to tell Foster mother to please ask Shivani Didi to send Kajal here at the foster home so we could go and take Kajal with us.

After continuous counselling and monitoring by the FCS team, after a week, foster child Reena settled with the foster family, her memory faded, she adjusted to the family, and she loves to be with the foster family. The Foster family is celebrating the inauguration of Foster Uncle’s home, and they already put the name of the foster child as a family member on the card.

Foster Care Society has been monitoring the child since her placement via video calling and visiting from time to time for monitoring and supervision. The child is growing up in a positive family environment and is living happily. Reena is average in her studies, and foster parents are doing their best to improve foster children and try to ensure that foster children learn new things daily.

Child Introduction

Punit, at the tender age of 10 months, lacked the presence of a mother, which was uncommon. Despite completing ten months without the warmth of maternal love since birth, he seemed to have needed it deep down. Resembling Lord Ram in appearance, anyone who saw this child would be instantly drawn to him.

While Punit’s mother was alive, her mental health prevented her from caring for him. For Punit to lead a better life, he needed a family. This would not only improve his life but also open numerous new dimensions for his future.

The Rajasthan government’s “Personal Care and Nurturing Programme Guidelines 2023 (Foster Care)” emerged as a great option for Punit. Recognising his need for a mother’s care, a caring family could fulfil all of Punit’s requirements under this programme. The District Child Protection Unit Udaipur, Udaipur Child Welfare Committee, and Foster Care Society Udaipur initiated the search for a family for Punit within the guidelines of the programme.

Potential Family Introduction

The search was successful, and a family known for their goodwill in local politics within Udaipur district was informed about the Personal Care and Nurturing Programme Guidelines 2023 (Foster Care). The family took some time to consider.

After a while, the family’s biological daughter decided that they would bring a child in need of care and protection into their home, ensuring his well-being and securing his future. The family collectively embraced this decision without delay, acknowledging it as a blessing for their household. A potential family had already lost their son at the age of 20 and wanted to foster a child.

They were briefed about the rules of the foster care programme, feeling confident in adhering to them and capable of providing a nurturing environment for Punit. Each department succeeded in their efforts, ultimately placing Punit with a caring foster family. The foster family was briefed about all available information regarding Punit.

Matching Day

The potential mother and father fell in love with Punit at first sight and were eager to bring him into their foster home as soon as possible. They were drawn to him because he was very young, only 10 months old, and bore a resemblance to Lord Ram. The potential family decided to foster Punit as their foster child.

Life in Foster Care

Upon his arrival at the foster family’s home, Punit found comfort in being among them. His foster father mentioned that Punit had a slight cold when he arrived, for which they immediately consulted a doctor and administered the prescribed medications.

Regarding his foster mother, it was mentioned that Punit slept in her company during the night. He would sometimes wake up, have some milk, and then go back to sleep. In the mornings, Punit woke up at 6 a.m. and enjoyed playing with his foster family.

Child Introduction

Seema was born into a family that begged outside a temple in Udaipur city. The entire family sustained themselves through begging. After her parents passed away, Seema was taken in by the priest’s family, who cared for the temple. They took her in and began looking after her.

However, ChildLine and the police discovered Seema living with a family without government permission. Consequently, ChildLine, along with the police, removed Seema from the family and presented her to the child welfare committee. She was then admitted to a child care institution. After some time, the child welfare committee deemed her eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The priest’s family, who had cared for Seema, consisted of the priest’s wife, two married sons, and a daughter. After the priest’s death, his wife, who had grown fond of Seema, decided to bring her back home. She learned about childcare through government programmes and, upon understanding foster care, approached the Foster Care Society. Being a single mother, her livelihood came from the temple and a pension. After completing the necessary paperwork and home studies required by the government, she was approved as a foster mother by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

Seema had been previously cared for by the foster mother, and Seema already knew them. Hence, there is no need for a match.

Life in Foster Care

Initially, Seema faced a lot of difficulties commuting to a school far from home, so the members of the Foster Care Society arranged for her admission to a nearby school. Seema struggled academically, so besides school, the foster mother arranged tuition for her at home. Gradually, Seema becomes emotionally connected with the family. She started listening to others and improved her communication skills due to the positive nurturing provided by her foster mother. She began focusing on her studies as a result of the hard work put in by her foster mother. Seema spends most of her time with them, and she’s developed a keen interest in computers, using them proficiently. She enjoys listening to music and creating art. She’s also learned discipline, respecting elders, and helping the foster mother with household chores. There have been significant positive changes observed in the foster home. Seema settled into the foster family within a month, displaying significant positive changes.

Child Introduction

Narendra was born into a family residing in a village outside the city of Udaipur. The family comprised only three members: Narendra, his father, and his mother. Narendra’s father was responsible for providing for the family. Due to his father’s illness, he passed away.

Subsequently, Narendra’s mother remarried according to the tradition of kinship when Narendra was only four years old. Narendra’s entire responsibility fell upon his uncle. His uncle had three children of his own, and due to their weak financial condition, they were unable to provide for their own children, let alone Narendra. So, they contacted various social organisations and presented Narendra before the Child Welfare Committee. After assessing Narendra’s situation, the committee declared him eligible for care and protection. Consequently, Narendra was admitted to a child care institution. However, for a long time, no one came forward to meet him, and no information was obtained about him. Therefore, the Child Welfare Committee announced that he was eligible for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

This family hails from another city in Rajasthan. The family consisted of a single mother, who was a government employee, along with her two daughters and one son. The family was very happy until their son fell ill suddenly and passed away, shattering their joy. The loss of their son left a void in the family, with the sisters missing their brother, prompting their mother to decide to become a foster parent. She learned about foster care through the government department. After getting in touch with the Foster Care Society, she received regular counselling. After understanding the concept of foster care, she expressed her willingness to take care of a boy of her son’s age. With the completion of the documentation and home study by the government department, the foster mother was declared fit by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

During the matching, the foster child was introduced to the foster family. In the foster family, the foster mother, her sister, and both daughters came to meet the foster child. The meeting took place in a comfortable and welcoming environment, allowing for open and honest communication.

The foster child was initially shy, but as the conversation progressed, he started to speak slowly. He showed interest in getting to know the foster family and asked questions about their interests and preferences, such as what food they liked and which sweets were their favourites. The foster child responded with great care, stating that he could eat all vegetables and liked cashew sweets. The foster family members also spoke to the foster child individually, showing him pictures on their phones and engaging in conversation. To make the foster child happy, the foster mother also gave him chocolate.

The foster family interacted with other members of the foster home, inquiring about the foster child’s behaviour, habits, and tendency to get angry, steal, or engage in any other inappropriate behaviour. It was explained by the supervisor, Mr. Moti Lal, that the foster child was of a normal temperament and took some time to get along with anyone, but he did not exhibit any other negative behaviours.

All members of the foster family were engaged in conversation with the foster child. They expressed their desire to provide a loving and nurturing home for the foster child. The foster mother shared information about her lifestyle, values, and future plans. She also expressed her enthusiasm and eagerness to welcome the foster child into her home. The meeting between the foster child and the foster family was positive and meaningful. Both the foster child and the foster family felt comfortable with each other, and there was a sense of mutual respect and understanding.

This meeting was a step forward in the direction of creating a loving and supportive family for the foster child.

Life in Foster Care

Initially, Narendra faced many difficulties due to changing schools frequently. To address this, his foster mother arranged for his admission to a school near their home, enabling him to attend regularly. Narendra struggled academically, so apart from school, his foster mother took on the responsibility of tutoring him through her younger daughter, enabling him to receive tuition at home.

With time, Narendra became emotionally attached to his foster family. He started to listen to others and improved his communication skills due to the positive upbringing of his foster mother. He also started paying attention to his studies. Since his foster mother put in a lot of effort into his education, Narendra became interested in listening to music and drawing. He learned discipline by respecting elders and helping his foster mother with household chores.

Significant improvements have been observed in the care provided by the Family.

Child Introduction:

Prince was found missing at a railway station when he was three years old. Childline presented him to the child welfare committee and listed him on the missing persons portal, but no one came forward to claim him. Consequently, he was placed in a child care institution (CCI), where he spent 1.5 years. The CWC categorised him as a CNCP (child in need of care and protection) and identified him as a potential child for foster care.

Potential Family Introduction

The potential family learned about foster care through government stakeholders in Chittaurgarh. They then reached out to the foster care society to gain a better understanding of the scheme. After spending six months comprehending the programme and engaging in numerous meetings with the foster care society, they prepared their documents. With the assistance of the foster care society, they submitted their application in the Jodhpur district. The potential father had retired from his work as a contractor, and the potential mother is a first-grade teacher in a government school. The potential family is fully capable of providing care for a child. Within a month, the family was approved as suitable foster parents by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

The potential family brought chocolates for the foster children and made every effort to comfort them by discussing hobbies, daily routines, games, friends, and favourite foods. They also asked if the child would like to come home with them. The foster children quickly became attached to the family and expressed a desire to go with them during the first meeting, referring to them as “Mummy-Papa

Life in Foster Care

Prince learned to enjoy a variety of new foods while in foster care, as his foster family introduced him to different cuisines both at home and in restaurants. These experiences provided him with a sense of adventure and opened his eyes to new culinary delights.

Additionally, Prince began attending an English-medium school, where he found a loving and supportive family environment. Living with his foster parents allowed him to learn new things every day, as they patiently taught him various skills and exposed him to new experiences.

Child Introduction:

Chinu was found near Fatehsagar lake in the city of Udaipur by a member of Childline and was deemed by the Child Welfare Committee as a child in need of care and protection. He was brought to childcare institution. At the time, chinu was approximately 3 years old and could provide little information about his family. During counselling sessions, he only mentioned his father’s name and that his mother had passed away. Despite exhaustive efforts by ChildLine and the Child Welfare Committee, no information regarding Chinu’s family could be found, leading him to stay in the childcare institution for four years. Subsequently, the Child Welfare Committee declared him eligible for foster care.

Family Background:

A potential family residing in Choti-Sadri, Pratapgarh District, Rajasthan. Potential father runs a grocery and fruit stall at the bus stand, while potential mother is a homemaker. They had no biological children of their own but had taken in a child from their extended family, whom they raised with love and care. The child excelled in studies up to the 10th grade. However, one day he fell ill suddenly and was admitted to the hospital, where he tragically passed away. Despite the immense loss, the family did not lose hope and learned about the government’s foster care scheme.

Potential parents reached out to Foster Care Society, expressing their desire to foster a child. Foster Care Society first inducted them, providing information about the scheme and its rules and regulations and helping them understand the workings of the foster care society. Subsequently, Foster Care Society supported them in preparing the documentation required to submit their file to the DCPU until placement.

Matching Day:

Potential parents had come to meet the foster child from Choti Sadri. A spot in the garden outside the childcare institution was chosen for the meeting, allowing the potential parents to converse comfortably with the child and enabling the child to express himself without fear.

The potential family showed interest in getting to know the potential foster child, asking questions about their preferences and interests, favourite foods, favourite vegetables, and favourite sweets. The foster child responded to potential parents’s questions by saying that he eats all kinds of vegetables and particularly enjoys sweets like chakki and rasgulla. Foster child also expressed a desire to accompany them, saying, “I want to come with you.”

Potential parents expressed a heartfelt desire to provide a loving and caring home for the foster child. They also expressed their enthusiasm and eagerness to welcome the foster child into their home.

Life in Foster Care:

The foster child is happy in the foster family, as the foster family has enrolled him in a nearby private school and started tuition classes to aid in his adjustment. They have also brought numerous new clothes for Chinu.

In the new home, due to a change in environment and routine, the foster child suffered from a mild cold and cough. Foster family promptly took him to a doctor and obtained the necessary medications.

Additionally, foster mother ensures his cleanliness and imparts lessons on proper hygiene to instill good behaviour. She also conducts daily teaching sessions and prepares delicious meals for him.

In the evenings, the foster family takes him outside for walks and market visits to facilitate his social integration, and they also bring him along to visit relatives. As a result, the foster child has successfully adjusted to the family, and they derive enjoyment from spending time with him and caring for him.

Child Introduction

Lucky was born into a family living in a remote tribal area far from the city. His family was small—just him, his father, and his mother. Sadly, his mother was mentally ill before Lucky was born, and his father left her when Lucky came into the world. Lucky’s father disappeared after that, and they didn’t know where he went. Because of his mother’s illness, they didn’t know where she was either. Lucky was just three years old at the time. He was left near his aunt’s house, and ChildLine helped him find temporary shelter. Even though the Child Welfare Committee tried to find Lucky’s parents, they couldn’t locate them. So, they decided that Lucky needed care and protection and could be placed with a foster family. In the meantime, he stayed in a child care institution until they found a suitable family for him.

Potential Family Introduction

This potential family was from the Dungarpur district. Potential father owned a business, and his wife and mother lived with him. Additionally, their nephew lived with them for his studies. Potential family learned about foster care from an existing foster family, and they showed interest in understanding foster care. They contacted Foster Care Society for further assistance. Foster Care Society helped them seek guidance from the government department. After regular consultations and understanding the concept of foster care, they expressed a willingness to foster a young child. With the completion of government documentation and home studies, the potential family was declared fit by the Child Welfare Committee.

Matching Day

During the matching process, the foster child met the potential foster family at the child care institution. The meeting happened in a child care institution in a comfortable and quiet space, allowing for honest communication between the family and the child.

Initially, the foster child was shy, but the potential father helped him feel at ease, and soon the child started engaging in conversation. They showed interest in getting to know each other, and the foster family invited the child to play with them. Laughter and jokes were exchanged, helping the child quickly bond with the family. The foster family brought toys that delighted the child, who seemed visibly happy. A warm and affectionate relationship developed between the foster child and the family.

The foster family also interacted with staff at the institution, asking about the child’s behaviour, habits, and any concerns such as anger or stealing. The superintendent assured them that the foster child had normal behaviour and didn’t exhibit any negative habits, aside from taking a little time to open up to others.

Overall, the matching was positive and meaningful for the foster child, marking a step forward in finding a loving and supportive home.

Life in Foster Care

After Lucky was placed with a foster family, his life underwent significant changes. For instance, Lucky was born with a fused finger, which was corrected through surgery at the child care institution. The foster family helped Lucky with exercises for his hand, which enabled him to use it effectively. Additionally, Lucky initially had difficulty with speech, but the family put in extensive effort to help him communicate properly. They taught him simple words and phrases at home, helping him grasp basic concepts before starting school. Lucky also learned discipline and respect for elders, and she enjoyed playing and learning new words at the foster home. Significant improvements in Lucky were observed under the supervision of the foster care society.