Currently, there are 114 foster families in Kyrgyzstan, raising 250 children. Additionally, 31 candidates have been registered for the role of foster parents. Since 2014, over 400 children have had the opportunity to live in foster family conditions. This information was announced by the Ministry of Labor, Social Welfare, and Migration, which continues to develop the foster care system in the country.
Each year, funds are allocated in the budget for the training of candidates for foster parents and for the support of children in such families.
Regional offices of the Ministry carry out constant monitoring to ensure compliance with the standards of upbringing and care for children in foster families.
It should be noted that the procedure for providing services in foster families is regulated by Government Resolution No. 622 of the Kyrgyz Republic, adopted on December 21, 2020.
Foster families, also known as adoptive or professional families, are trained families that temporarily take in children who are without parental care. This is done based on a contract to provide children with a family atmosphere and to avoid orphanages until a permanent solution is found, such as adoption or return to their biological family. The state provides financial assistance to foster parents and children, making this temporary upbringing professional, although legally the children remain orphans.
Key features of a foster family:
- Temporary nature: Upbringing occurs for a specific period — from a few hours to several years, until a permanent family is found for the child.
- Contractual relationships: Parents sign a contract with the state, for example, with the Ministry of Labor.
- Professional training: Foster parents undergo special training to fulfill their duties.
- Financial support: The state provides a salary to the foster parent and a child allowance.
- Goal: To provide children with care, stability, and family upbringing, which will help reduce the number of children in orphanages.
