Padstow couple Samar and Mouhamad Dabbagh are only in their mid-30s but have already fostered 15 children and young people and have also adopted a young boy and are in the process of adopting another.
Foster carers with Creating Links since 2015, the Muslim couple have cared for children from a range of diverse cultures, religions and backgrounds.
They have supported children until they can be returned to their birth parents and have built lifelong relationships with the families, staying part of the children’s lives.
Through their time as foster carers, they have identified many gaps for children entering care, such as lack of personal items and clothing.
This experience helped form the charity – Fostering Our Ummah – run by foster carers and case managers to prepare items in backpacks of necessity, such as clothing, toys, hygiene and religious information, for children entering their new placements.
Samar and Mouhamad also run annual Eid drives, supporting Muslim children in Out of Home Care with Eid gifts and resources during their festive seasons.
They say fostering children is the best thing they have ever done and look forward to growing their family even further.
“Fostering is such a worthwhile and rewarding thing to do,” Samar said.
“There are challenges but we have great support from Creating Links; children just need love and stability, knowing what the routine is for sleep, play and school and that there will always be food on the table.
“We encourage others to reach out and help give needy children a safe home and happy life.”
To find out more: https://creatinglinks.org.au or 1300 254 657.
