Press Release
FROM THE Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 2nd May 2025 – The Department of Social Development and Welfare, within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, proudly joins the global community in observing National Foster Care Awareness Month this May under the theme, “The Power of Relationships.”
This month provides a meaningful opportunity to honour the remarkable resilience of children and youth in the foster care system while celebrating the individuals and networks who serve as pillars of hope offering consistent support as these children journey toward stability, healing, and success.
At the heart of foster care lies the transformative power of relationships those golden threads that weave stability, love, and trust into the lives of children in care. Whether it’s a quiet moment of reassurance, a shared laugh, or the simple act of listening, these connections remind children that they are not alone. They are valued, capable, and deeply loved. Together, these relationships form the foundation for healing, growth, and the promise of a brighter future.
Throughout May, the Department will host a series of social media and public outreach initiatives aimed at:
- Educating the public about foster care,
- Celebrating current foster families, and
- Encouraging potential foster parents to come forward.
These efforts will include informational sessions on the foster care process, understanding the needs of children in care, and guidance on how to become a foster parent. A Foster Family Appreciation Day will also be held to honour the dedication of foster families across the islands. Additionally, the Department will conduct foster care drives in various communities to expand awareness and engagement.
“Every child in our care deserves to feel safe and loved. These are our islands, our children—and we must take ownership of building nurturing environments for our future citizens, with their voices at the forefront. This is only possible with a sensitized, compassionate community that understands foster care is a collective responsibility. Frederick Douglass reminds us that ‘it is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men,” said Ashley Adams-Forbes, Director of the Department of Social Development and Welfare. The Department provides foster parents with ongoing training, a monthly stipend to support the child’s basic needs, medical coverage, and access to therapeutic, educational, recreational, and crisis support services.
Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, shared:
“It is because of our incredible foster parents across the country that children, youth, and siblings can experience the warmth of a safe and loving home. Not every child begins life with the advantage of a positive environment, and it is the duty of the State to step in with compassion and intention.
Foster care is not only a response—it is a strategic investment in our future. This aligns squarely with our commitments under the Citizen’s Contract and the vision laid out in Vision 2040, where we seek to build a resilient, inclusive, and caring society. Ensuring that our most vulnerable children are protected, supported, and given opportunities to thrive is a direct contribution to nation-building.
To every foster parent—thank you. You’ve opened not just your homes, but your hearts and your families. You are making a lasting difference, and we deeply appreciate you.”
We invite individuals, businesses, and organizations across the Turks and Caicos Islands to join us in this important mission. Whether by providing emergency or long-term foster care, or simply by helping to spread awareness about the need for foster families—your involvement matters. Every child deserves a champion.
For more information about the Department of Social Development and our programs, please visit: www.gov.tc/dsd
Email: infodsd@gov.tc
Contact Numbers:
Providenciales: 1-649-338-4008
Grand Turk: 1-649-338-2684
North & Middle Caicos: 1-649-338-6411/12
South Caicos: 1-649-338-6321
To report a safeguarding matter or concern:
MASH: 1-649-338-4013
mash@gov.tc | reportabusetci@gov.tc
Follow us:
Instagram: @socialdevelopment.welfare
Facebook: @Department of Social Development, TCI
