Zorg en Jeugd Caribisch Nederland (ZJCN) officially kicked off Foster Care Month 2026 today with a special bus tour through various neighborhoods on Bonaire. Under the theme “A warm heart, a safe home,” the day focused on meeting people, interactive activities, and recruiting new foster families. The activities are part of a broader Foster Care Month in which extra attention is paid to the importance of foster care in the Caribbean Netherlands.
During the kick-off, a team of foster care professionals took to the streets to engage in conversation with residents. They explained what foster care entails, why a safe home is so important for everyone, and how residents can contribute. Folders were also distributed, and an active search was conducted for people interested in becoming foster parents. Collaborative partners such as Akseso, EOZ, Mental Health Caribbean (MHC), and the Voogdijraad (Guardianship council) were also visited and received a symbolic token of appreciation in the form of a small wooden house containing informational materials. This year, ZJCN deliberately chose a different approach by organizing the kick-off not only with chain partners, but specifically with the community. “Foster care is something for all of us,” says the foster care team. “By taking to the streets, we hope to bring the conversation closer to the people and make it visible that everyone can contribute to a safe home for children.”
Extra attention for resilient foster families
During this Foster Care Month, the emphasis is on recruiting foster families who can support children with complex backgrounds. It is especially important for these children to end up in a stable and warm environment where they can develop safely.
ZJCN invites residents to learn more about foster care and to discuss the possibilities. Sometimes a small gesture or an open door can make all the difference in the life of a particular child.
More information
Would you like to know more about foster care or consider becoming a foster parent? Please contact ZJCN via pleegzorg@jeugdzorgcn.com.