They became foster parents to a 16-year-old boy through the William Campbell Foundation in October last year, after noticing a growing need for carers both locally and Australia-wide.

“There is a particular need for foster parents to take on children within that high school age. We noticed a lot of advertising around and decided to speak to the foundation about the possibility of becoming a carer,” Mrs Abraham said.

“At first we didn’t think we would be able to take on a child for long-term care at our age, but we had such a strong connection with Charlie (his real name has not been used in this story).

“Charlie was left to fend for himself, much like Bob, who spent his childhood on the streets.”

Mrs Abraham said Charlie was after a farming lifestyle and they felt they could provide that for him.

“He loves caring for the animals and it has taught him responsibility as well as helping him feel stable through routine,” she said.

“We will care for Charlie until we die. 

“He is a part of our family.”

Mr and Mrs Abraham said the support they had received has been outstanding and it is much easier to become a foster carer than they initially thought.

“The more people who give children a chance the better,” Mrs Abraham said.

“There are challenges for sure, and it is hard work, but we have got such a reward out of it as well.”

Mrs Abraham said in just 12 months Charlie’s grades had improved significantly, his personality had shown a positive change and he has even learnt to drive a car and a tractor.

“He showed an interest in the horses, so we bought him one,” Mr Abraham said.

“Kids like Charlie are always looking for a way to survive so he seems very old for his age, but he can still be impossible to get out of bed in the morning, like any other teenager,” Mrs Abraham said.

“He is a smart kid and could go on to do anything and even go to university if he wants.”

Mr and Mrs Abraham said Foster Care Week was a great way to celebrate foster carers.

“It’s important for the community to become aware of the growing need for foster carers and how children can benefit from a stable family environment.”

A Self Care for Foster Carers session will be held on Monday, September 15 from 10am at the Huskisson Community Centre. 

A Foster Carers’ Lunch will be held on Wednesday, September 17 at 11am at the Bomaderry RSL. The William Campbell Foundation’s 130 foster carers will attend to celebrate Foster Care Week.

A free foster care information session will be held on Thursday, September 18 from 5.30pm at the North Nowra Community Centre.

To register for the session or for more information about foster caring, call 1300 130 585.