Minister Klodiana Spahiu Announces 200 Foster Families for Children Without Parental Care

Klodiana Spahiu, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, recently introduced a set of four sub-legal acts that are designed to fortify the alternative family-based care system for children who are temporarily unable to be raised by their biological families. The minister emphasized the importance of fostering a safe family environment that is customized to the unique needs of children, with their well-being and best interests at the forefront of all decisions, during a visit to the Special Center for Children Aged 4–14.
The government intends to construct a nationwide network of approximately 200 professional foster families as part of the social care reform. The care provided by these families will be monitored throughout the child’s placement, and they will be selected, trained, and certified. In addition to the monthly financial support, the child will receive an additional allowance of ALL 12,000 per month to cover their needs, as well as ALL 35,000 annually to cover school expenses and other costs associated with their upbringing and development.
The package also establishes procedures for the placement and follow-up of minors, as well as the management of complaints. A national electronic register will be established to facilitate the management of data regarding foster families and children. When it is determined that it is in the child’s best interest, relationships with biological families will be preserved. The objective of the initiative is to enable the progressive transition of children at risk and those without parental care from institutional care to family-based care.