Yukon Foster Parents to Receive Rate Increase
For Release #09-199
August 31, 2009
WHITEHORSE – Beginning October 1, Yukon’s foster parents will see the rates they receive
increase by 17 per cent for the first time in 12 years, Health and Social Services Minister
Glenn Hart announced today.
“Yukon foster parents are an integral part of our child welfare system, providing an essential
service for children in care. We recognize the dedication, time and energy it takes to be a foster
parent,” Hart said.
The minister said the cost of living and the costs associated with fostering children have
increased substantially since 1997. “I am pleased that we are now able to provide an increase
for foster parents that reflects the current situation,” he added.
In addition to the 17 per cent rate increase, foster care rates will also be indexed to the
Consumer Price Index (CPI) beginning in 2010. Basic foster care rates are provided directly to
foster parents who volunteer to provide a home for children. The payments help pay for basic
needs of children, including shelter, food, clothing, incidentals and some recreational costs.
“The Yukon Foster Parents Association welcomes the news that the Yukon government will
provide a substantial increase in the base rates of child in care payments,” Tiana Zakus,
president of the association said. “Being a foster parent has many challenges but stretching our
family budgets to meet the needs of children in care of the director should not be one of them.”
Zakus said the association has recommended in the past linking rates to the CPI. “We are very
happy with this announcement. It makes us feel valued and that we won’t be forgotten,” she
added.
Basic foster care rates vary depending on the location of the community where the foster family
lives. As of October 1, the basic rate in Whitehorse will be $31.55 per day.
“This government promised to review foster care rates and we are now delivering on that
promise,” Hart said. “We value the contribution made by volunteer foster parents and are
pleased to ensure that they will have adequate funds to pay for the basic needs of children in
their care.”
For more information about foster care in Yukon, visit www.hss.gov.yk.ca/foster_care.