Rasbert Turner, Portmore Star Writer

More than 20 foster parents were given certificates of appreciation by the Child Development Agency recently at the Bright Beginning Educational Centre in Cedar Grove.

Held under the theme 'Vision, Hope and Inspiration of the Nations' Children', the occasion saw the parents and those who they care for flocking to the venue for the evenings activities.

It was 16-year-old Dianne Finch, however, who stole the spotlight. She told the audience that despite being a foster child, she felt like she is really special. "I think that my foster mother cares a lot for me. I have gone abroad on many occasions. I have even toured the world and there are times that I spoke to my friends who have never even seen a plane. So, indeed, I feel special," remarked Finch.

She also told the audience that when she was wrong, her foster mother would straighten her up and she feels like, even as a teenager, she is still loved. It was at that point that she presented her foster mother to the crowd and ended her speech to a standing ovation.

This did not escape master of ceremony Robert Williams, nor guest speaker Carole Rowe. The latter called Finch one child of love and one who is for the future. She went on to thank all the foster parents and those who took it upon themselves to give their time to children who are not biologically theirs.

It was an evening well spent with children from the institution giving several items of songs and dance, much to the delight of all who turned out to make the evening a very special one.

Glen Campbell, a child development officer for St Catherine, also praised the foster parents.

The Portmore Star learnt that for the South East Region, which comprise St Catherine and three other parishes, there are 342 foster children living with 214 foster parents.

Parents are given $4,000 each month and additional incentives to help care for each foster child.