Federation Training* graduate Heather Baird has successfully established a Not For Profit organisation called ‘A Better Life For Foster Kids Inc.’; providing essential supplies and support services to foster children in need.
The organisation was officially launched in June 2014, and experienced an overwhelming amount of support from the community. With assistance from ABL Lawyers in Melbourne, ‘A Better Life For Foster Kids’ became a Not For Profit Incorporation on September 1st 2015, and are now registered with all the relevant authorities.
Upon completing a Diploma of Social Services in 2012, Heather looked to gain employment in the child welfare system. However, after completing work placement in the Child Protection sector, Heather realised she could do more for foster children through advocacy and fundraising within the community.
Heather empathises with the challenges faced by many foster kids; having lived in an orphanage from a young age and moved through a number of foster homes. Heather found her independence at the age of 18, only to realise the enormous challenges of the ‘real world.’
“I wished someone had taken the time to explain how the real world worked,” said Heather, “I had not seen a supermarket until then, it was like being in another time zone.”
Heather’s own childhood experiences inspired her to provide assistance to foster kids in need; allowing them the opportunity for a better quality of life.
“I always wanted to help other children in similar situations, so at the age of 56 I had the chance at making my dream come true,” said Heather.
Heathers vision is that every child in Australia that is removed from home, are supplied with one of their ‘Crisis Bag’s’, which contains basic needs for approximately 3 days.
“I am hoping that by Christmas, these bags will be in every Police Station, Child Protection Department and Agency,” said Heather.
The organisation accepts all kinds of donations including: children’s clothing, toys, household appliances, furniture, gift cards and monetary donations.
Heather says the most precious donation of all is time, “If anyone out there has an hour or more to help sort and pack, we would love to hear from you!”
For more information or to make a donation visit www.abetterlifeforfosterkids.org.au, find ‘A Better Life For Foster Kids Inc.’ on Facebook or phone Heather Baird on 0412 154 424.
*At the time of publishing this media release, TAFE Gippsland was known as Federation Training.