Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The newly licensed Foster Families Association in Abu Dhabi proves that it takes a village to raise a child as it sets out on a mission to enhance family-based care and encourage greater community involvement in child welfare.
Licensed by the Department of Community Development (DCD) as a public benefit organisation, the association will serve as a community-focused group that will help promote a culture of family fostering and create nurturing homes for children in care.
Speaking to Aletihad, Mubarak Al Ameri, Executive Director of the Social Licensing and Control Sector at the DCD, said the entity aims to raise awareness about fostering and provide integrated psychological and social support to families.
“This ensures that the child’s best interests remain central to all practices, strengthens community trust in the fostering system, and establishes a supportive and safe family environment for children’s development,” Al Ameri said.
Among its key initiatives, the association will deliver training programmes and workshops covering the psychological, social and educational aspects of fostering.
It will also promote awareness of legal rights, responsibilities, and child protection mechanisms to ensure families can provide safe and stable environments.
“These efforts will empower foster families to perform their roles effectively, in line with national child protection policies, enhance their readiness, and elevate family care standards according to best practices,” Al Ameri said.
Initiatives also place a strong emphasis on connection. Planned community events and shared platforms will allow foster families to exchange experiences, challenges and advice, helping build a support system where no one feels they are navigating the journey alone.
Beyond its immediate impact, the association is expected to contribute to a longer-term shift, according to Al Ameri. By raising awareness, empowering families, and generating community insights, he said the Foster Families Association aims to help shape future policies and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s family-based care ecosystem, ultimately improving the lives of children in care.
