Carer Profile: Elena

As a sole parent working full-time and raising two teenagers, Elena’s household is already a busy one. Yet, just under four months ago, she welcomed two more children, aged six and twelve, into her family through foster care.

“I’ve always had this sense that caring for children should be a shared community responsibility,” Elena reflects. “When I was young, my school friend’s parents were foster carers. They always had extra babies and children in the house. Later, when I lived and worked in the Pacific Islands, I really loved how caring for children was a collective responsibility. In Australia, we’ve become more individualistic, and parents can feel isolated. I feel a sense of duty to my community to volunteer through foster care. The more we all give our time, the richer, safer and more connected our community becomes.”

A carer for almost a decade, Elena has discovered that some of the most meaningful moments come from simple things. “Kids aren’t looking for big events, they’re looking for safety and stability first. Once they feel secure, that’s when new experiences really matter,” she explains.

She’s learned that even small adventures can be life-changing. “For some kids, they’ve never left their suburb, never felt grass under their feet, or tried different foods. Doing something new can be overwhelming, so small steps are best,” she says. “My favourite experiences have been bush walks, being in nature, spotting scar trees, watching animals, getting muddy, and just talking as we walk. Night walks with head torches are amazing, spotting wombats is always a highlight!”

Fostering has also had a profound impact on Elena’s own children. “We started fostering when my youngest started school. We make decisions together as it has to work for my kids. I think it’s helped them become more open-minded and compassionate. They’ve learned that every child’s family experience is different, and they’ve been incredible in opening their hearts and home to others. We’ve also loved learning about different cultures from the children we’ve cared for. I has enriched our lives.”

For those thinking about fostering, Elena’s message is encouraging: “Give it a go! Start with respite care, that’s how we began. It’s flexible and a great way to see how it fits with your life. Respite carers are vital as they help full-time carers keep going. And we need more carers, full stop. We’ve also met the most amazing people through fostering, other carers who’ve become lifelong friends.”

When it comes to challenges, Elena is honest. “The hardest part isn’t the kids, it’s the system around them. The government system doesn’t always work the way it should, and that can be frustrating. But our foster care agency is fantastic, they listen, support, and advocate for us when things aren’t working.”

She also wants to challenge a common misconception: “People often say, ‘I could never do it; I’d get too attached.’ But we have to get attached as kids need that connection. And yes, it’s hard when they leave. We’ve grieved after kids have moved on, but we remind ourselves that we gave them safety and love when they needed it most. Making photo books, taking a break, and connecting with other carers helps. It’s still 100 per cent worth it.”

For Elena, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “The best thing about foster care is going to bed knowing you’re providing a safe home for a child. Even if it’s just for one night, they’re safe. Supporting children to heal from trauma is all about baby steps.”