Foster families see first stipend increase in years

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Cayman Islands Government has increased the stipend amount paid to foster families.

Starting this month, the weekly stipend will increase from $195 to $260 for fostering children aged 0-3 years, from $160 to $215 for children aged 4-18 years, and from $220 to $300 for special needs children.

The last stipend adjustment for foster families was made in 2015.

The increase follows feedback from a 2023 survey of foster parents that evaluated cost-of-living increases, according to a press release from the Ministry of Investment, Innovation & Social Development and the Department of Children and Family Services.

“The survey, which collected insights from foster parents throughout the country, highlighted the need for greater financial assistance to meet the growing demands of providing high-quality care to foster children,” the ministry said.

“By offering more financial assistance, the Government hopes to attract new families to the foster care system, with the aim of ensuring that every child in need of care has access to a loving and stable home.”

A cost-of-living review for foster families should now occur on an annual basis, the ministry added.

Deputy Premier and Minister André Ebanks said this adjustment was crucial to equip foster families with resources and to provide safe living environments.

“This stipend adjustment is about more than just financial assistance; it’s about safeguarding our children and ensuring their wellbeing,” Ebanks said in a press release.

“By investing in our foster care system, we not only retain the dedicated parents who play an essential role in our community but also encourage more families to consider fostering, which is a growing need in our Islands.”

More information about the foster care system can be obtained by contacting [email protected] or calling (345)949-0290.