On 21 February, MacKillop Family Services will join the global celebration of World Care Day, the biggest awareness event recognising the experiences and achievements of children and young people who have grown up in foster or residential care.
Children in care have experienced instability and adversity. Despite these challenges, they continue to strive towards their goals, focus on education, build connections and dream of a bright future. Their journeys are a testament to their resilience, strength and determination—and to the incredible support they receive from foster carers, teachers, case managers, youth workers and the wider community.
This year’s theme, ‘Celebrating Every Journey’, highlights the unique experiences of children in care and the role of safe, trusted adults in their lives. Through storytelling and art, young people in care at MacKillop Family Services are sharing their personal journeys, demonstrating their talents and giving the community an insight into their lives.
‘This sketch represents where I’m at at the moment and represents the person who has helped me through the most, my foster carer. I feel happy where I’m at right now and happy my carer has helped me by being there for me. I feel positive about the future.’
—Young person, aged 16
MacKillop foster carer Michael knows that the right support enables children to thrive. He also spent time as a ward of the state when he was younger.
‘We need to help kids in care understand that they are strong, and they can be who they want to be. As a community, we must make it easier for them to succeed and ensure that they are not struggling on their own. Being in care doesn’t define who you are.’
‘I love to have fun at the beach and to get shells from the beach – I like seeing the jellyfish. Puzzles are fun and I like colouring and playing Monopoly with staff. I also like to bake with staff and like having fun at the park. My favourite Pokémon is Pikachu.’
—Young person aged 10
Dr Robyn Miller AM, MacKillop’s CEO, says some of the most impressive and resilient people she has met in more than 30 years working in child protection have been young people who have spent time in care.
‘I’ve known kids who continue to focus on their studies, get part-time jobs, pursue passions, and stay connected with family and community, all while navigating the uncertainty of being in care.
‘We have amazing foster carers who support children and young people, because they know what a positive difference a safe and nurturing home makes, and they’re passionate about providing that stability to children so they can be their best selves.’
‘I painted my foster family at the beach. In the picture is me and my three sisters, and my foster sister and carer. This is my first summer being a good swimmer at the beach and it is a very happy memory. We have been going to the beach a lot. It brings me joy and I felt happy painting it.’
—Young person, aged 7
Robyn adds, ‘World Care Day highlights the achievements of young people in care and makes us think about the practical ways we can support them. Knowing they are loved, safe and secure and that they have the same opportunities as anyone else is the very least that every single child deserves.’
Inspiring images and stories created for World Care Day celebrate the achievements of children in care with MacKillop, and acknowledge those who support them. They pay tribute to the teachers, friends, carers and advocates who make a huge difference in the life of a young person in care.
‘Snakes: A symbol of transformation, they teach us how vital it is to shed what no longer serves us. Snakes must literally shed or die. As painful as it is, letting go of what restricts us can allow us to survive, grow and thrive. Never let the same snake bite twice.’
—Young person, aged 16
Banner image: painting by seven-year-old foster child.
All images courtesy of MacKillop Family Services.
