Almost two decades ago, MercyCare foster carer Philippa Wills saw a sign that changed her life forever. Now, 18 years later, Philippa is one of MercyCare’s most dedicated Foster Carers, providing a safe and supportive home for children who need it most.
Children are the most vulnerable members of our community, and for those who need foster care, it may be for several reasons. They may be experiencing circumstances that cause harm, such as abuse and neglect, or be in a situation where they cannot be raised consistently and safely, such as family illness and loss.
Over the years, Philippa has provided long-term, emergency and respite care for many children and in turn, she has changed the trajectory of these children’s lives now and into the future.
“Becoming a foster carer is the most rewarding, challenging, life-changing thing you can do,” Philippa told MercyCare.
“After my previous marriage, I met my current husband, Richard. I thought of this as God giving me a second chance, and I wanted to give back. I asked for signs when I first started considering fostering and kept seeing them, but one night I prayed for one clear sign before I made my decision. The next morning, I walked into a shop and saw a Nike sign saying, “Just Do It”, and then I became a Foster Carer.”
Philippa continued, “we have always felt comfortable and supported at MercyCare. We have also been very lucky and always had great case workers. MercyCare has a carer and child-focused approach. We see their casework as being like a family unit”.
General Manager of Fostering Services, Shona Robertson explains that “currently there are more than 5,000 children in foster care in Western Australia, across metropolitan, regional and rural towns and communities, and there is always a need for more carers.”
“MercyCare Foster Carers are fully supported by the Fostering Services team, and we welcome carers who are married, single, living together or divorced, from all backgrounds and cultures with different life experiences,” said Shona.
If you have been thinking about becoming a Foster Carer, or looking for signs before taking the leap, find out more about MercyCare Fostering Services at our website. This might be the start of something special for you too: https://www.mercycare.com.au/community-services/foster-care/about-foster-care
*Image description – Philippa (centre, wearing blue) at a fostering services conference with other carers and staff.
