Foster Care Scheme (Vatsalaya)

Foster Care Scheme (Vatsalaya) in Goa

The Foster Care Scheme (Vatsalaya) is a vital initiative established by the Department of Women & Child Development, Government of Goa. This program aims to offer temporary or substitute care for children facing challenging situations, particularly when their parents are unable to provide the necessary care due to reasons such as illness, death, or desertion.

Overview of the Scheme

This scheme is designed to ensure that children in difficult circumstances receive the care and support they need. It focuses on providing a nurturing environment for children whose parents are unable to care for them due to various crises. The program emphasizes the importance of emotional and psychological assessments to ensure that foster care placements are appropriate and beneficial for the child.

Awareness and Outreach

To enhance the visibility of the need for foster care, various organizations and groups are encouraged to raise awareness. These include:

• Self-Help Groups
• Mahila Mandals
• Child Development Project Officers
• Village Child Committees
• Anganwadi Workers
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Media Outlets

Placement Guidelines

When placing a child in a foster care setting, the following conditions are considered:

• The age and gender of existing children in the foster family.
• A maximum of two children may be placed with a foster family, unless they are siblings.
• Foster parents will receive guidance on behavioral issues related to the child.
• Assessment of the child’s emotional and psychological needs will be conducted.
• The child’s opinion will be considered wherever feasible before placement.
• In cases involving children in conflict with the law, referrals will be made to the Child Welfare Committee.

Benefits of the Scheme

Foster families are eligible to receive financial support based on assessments conducted by the Child Care Coordinator. The following allowances are provided:

• Foster Care Allowance: ₹2,500 per month (Note: Children benefiting from the Dayanand Social Security Scheme are not eligible for this allowance).
• Maintenance Allowance:
  • For children aged 0 to 6 years: ₹1,500 per month
  • For children aged 6 to 14 years: ₹2,000 per month
  • For children aged 14 to 18 years: ₹2,500 per month

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for children and foster parents are as follows:

For Children

• Experiencing family breakdown or marital discord.
• Facing crises due to family illness or substance abuse.
• Safety concerns for the child.
• Impacted by natural or man-made disasters.
• Orphaned, abandoned, or relinquished children.
• Children who cannot be adopted.
• Children currently in institutions who can be reintegrated into families.
• Children in conflict with the law.

For Foster Parents

• Must demonstrate stable emotional adjustment within the family.
• Income must be sufficient to meet the child’s basic needs.
• Medical fitness reports for all household members are required.
• Experience and capacity in child care are necessary.
• Must ensure a conducive living environment with adequate space.
• Commitment to follow health guidelines, including regular medical visits.
• Willingness to sign an agreement for the child’s welfare and return.
• Participation in training or orientation programs on child care is expected.
• Encouragement for the child’s education and vocational training is essential.

Note: Discrimination based on caste, religion, or health status is prohibited in the selection of foster parents. The best interests of the child are paramount in all placements.

Application Procedure

To apply for the Foster Care Scheme (Vatsalaya), follow these steps:

1. Visit the District Child Protection Society or Child Welfare Committee to request a hard copy of the application form.
2. Complete the application form, ensuring all mandatory fields are filled, and attach a signed passport-sized photograph along with required documents.
3. Submit the completed application form and documents to the Child Care Coordinator or relevant authority.
4. Obtain a receipt or acknowledgment of the application submission.

Identification of Foster Families

Biological parents can identify potential caregivers or relatives willing to provide foster care. Adoption agencies may compile a list of couples who do not qualify for adoption but are ready to foster children.