FOSTER FAMILIES TO RECEIVE FIRST AID AND CPR TRAINING

In order to further enhance the safety of children in foster care, certification in first aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is now mandatory for all Saskatchewan foster parents.

One-time funding of $561,400 from the Ministry of Social Services will provide certification for approximately 1,200 foster parents (680 foster homes) across the province by spring of 2014. The Saskatchewan Foster Families Association (SFFA) will co-ordinate, track and monitor training of foster parents with St. John's Ambulance. The SFFA will also be responsible for recertification.

"The safety and well-being of children in care is our top priority," Social Services Minister June Draude said. "We are pleased to work with the SFFA and St. John Ambulance to help enhance the great work that foster families are already doing."

"We are always striving to ensure that foster children receive the best care possible," Saskatchewan Foster Families Association Executive Director Deb Davies said. "This mandatory training will provide foster parents with the type of skills required to improve the outcome of emergency situations."

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For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8689
Email: andrew.dinsmore@gov.sk.ca

Deb Davies
Saskatchewan Foster Families Association
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-270-3172
Email: debd.sffa@sasktel.net