Christchurch-based National MP Aaron Gilmore welcomes the ‘Home for Life’ support package for New Zealanders to provide children in care with a home for life.

“All children deserve a secure home, and we’re helping them get there,” Mr Gilmore says.

“There are more than 5,000 children in State care at any given time and the National-led Government is determined to remove any barrier to finding them a permanent, stable home.

“There are more than 300 children under the age of five who have been in care for more than two years. For a five year old, two years is a very long time.”

Home for Life offers financial, practical, and other support to help either a foster carer, or an ordinary New Zealander with a big heart, to take a child on permanently.

Home for Life includes:

• Financial support for clothing and other costs ($2,500 upfront payment)
• Baby care pack – cot, pushchair, bottles and baby-wear
• Reasonable assistance with legal costs
• Expert CYF support for as long as necessary
• Parenting seminars
• Respite breaks for carers to get some time out

“We want to support families, and walk alongside them as they take steps to take on a child who simply needs a home and a family. All children should have a chance at a decent life, enjoy being children, and learn what it means to be part of a loving family.

“I’m proud to be part of a Government which is serious about caring for children and giving them the secure home they deserve,” Mr Gilmore says.