Ministry of Social Policy: Number of foster families in Ukraine nearly doubles, but demand remains high

Ukraine is making significant strides in expanding its network of foster families to better support children facing difficult life circumstances or at risk of losing parental care. According to officials, the number of foster families has nearly doubled – yet the need continues to outpace available resources.

The update was delivered by Iryna Postolovska, Deputy Minister of Social Policy for European Integration, during a briefing at Media Center Ukraine.

“What we’re doing now, both in terms of prevention and for children who are already in vulnerable situations, those in need of additional care, or those at risk of being removed from their families, is investing in the development of foster families,” Postolovska said. “In July of last year, the government adopted a resolution that increased financial support and assistance for foster families and caregivers. And now, we can already see that the number of foster families has almost doubled. Of course, this is still not enough. We will continue to strengthen this service and actively engage local communities in its expansion to ensure as many foster families as possible are created.”

The goal of these policy changes, she noted, is not simply to provide temporary shelter but to offer meaningful care that fosters healthy development.

“Our primary objective is to ensure children receive the care they need to support their growth, particularly in early childhood,” Postolovska emphasized.

At the same time, she underscored the importance of supporting biological families wherever feasible.

“We must continue working with biological families, when possible, to offer support and direction, and, above all, to promote family reunification,” she added.

Read more: https://mediacenter.org.ua/news