2021 DPSS Annual Report Online_FINAL

Annual Report 2020/2021

Children’s Services

Tami & Derrick

When a child arrives at Tami and Derrick’s home — sometimes in the middle of night — the couple reassure each child that they are part of their family. “We do what we can so they feel comfortable while they are with us,” said Tami, who experienced foster placement as a youth. “One child’s mother told us he liked beans and white rice, so that is what we cooked for him.”

Tami and Derrick have fostered 14 children since becoming certified in 2018. Ten of the children have successfully reunited with their birth parents. Four in their care now are also on track for reunification. “We try to be flexible and work around the parent’s schedule to make sure they get to visit their kids every week,” said Derrick. “We never want to replace their parents. We just want them to know we are all in this together.”

35