Many Essex families are decorating their trees in preparation for Father Christmas. But for vulnerable children who have never had a Christmas, foster carers bring the magic to them.
We urge residents from all backgrounds to consider offering a nurturing home for a child in need. Becoming a foster carer at this time of year can create precious childhood experiences.
Over 500 children came into care across the county in the past year. We need to recruit 60 foster carers every year to meet the demand. Find out how to become one on our website.
Sheila and Paul from the Colchester area have been foster carers with us for 13 years. They have fostered 38 children in total as well as being parents to their daughter, Katie. Currently, they foster three young boys.
Sheila said:
When the boys first arrived with us three years ago, they didn’t believe in Father Christmas. They were told that they were ‘too naughty for Christmas presents’, which was heart-breaking to hear from a six-year-old. They had never experienced Christmas and didn’t even know what a cracker was.
Paul and I went on a mission to help them believe in Father Christmas. We watched all the festive films and we decorated every room in the house (even the toilet!). Paul dressed up as Father Christmas – he does it every year, visiting friends’ and neighbours’ houses on Christmas Eve.
By Christmas morning, the boys believed Father Christmas was real. They came running into our bedroom telling us Father Christmas had left them presents. They were so excited, they dragged their stockings upstairs, tipped the presents onto our bed and started opening them. We then cooked a Christmas dinner, crackers included, and celebrated as a family. All three boys said it was their best Christmas ever.
Learn more about Sheila’s and Paul’s experiences by watching this video:
