Foster families struggle: 'How can I give them away?!'

The Estonian foster care system is facing significant challenges, with nearly 50 children returned to children's homes from foster families in just four years. Parents who made the difficult decision to return children often cited a lack of alternatives, expressing that they saw no other viable path forward.

This trend underscores the immense difficulties that foster families can encounter. The reasons behind these returns are complex, often involving the profound emotional and practical demands of caring for children who may have experienced trauma or have special needs. The system's ability to adequately support these families is being called into question.

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How can I give them away?!

The situation raises critical questions about the resources and support structures available to foster parents. Ensuring that these families receive the necessary training, psychological support, and financial assistance is crucial to prevent such returns and to provide stable, loving homes for children in need. The experiences of these parents and children highlight a systemic issue requiring urgent attention and solutions.

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they simply saw no other way out.