Glenda and Paul's story
Glenda and Paul were in their early 20's and just married when they chose to become foster carers. Fourteen years later, and with two children of their own, they have provided emergency, short-term and respite care for almost 70 children.
Glenda says it's a privilege to provide a safe environment for these children.
"Being a foster carer is the most rewarding, amazing experience I could ever ask for," said Glenda.
"Usually a child comes to us because their parents' circumstances have changed and they can't look after them. We just step in for the short term to provide a safe environment. When they can be reunited with their parents, its wonderful."
"It's rewarding to see a child's confidence grow in such a short time. To see them change from being withdrawn and quiet, when they first arrive, to a confident and happy child enjoying a joke or playing with the dog chokes me up - in a good way."
"Our own kids have never begrudged sharing their family or asked us to stop. They really enjoy it. And they love it when Tom*, our regular respite, comes to stay."
Glenda and Paul plan to get into long-term care when their 12 -year-old daughter and 9-year-old son are older.
"I'm so lucky to have had a wonderful childhood and upbringing. We were never rich, but my parents ensured I never felt like I missed out on anything. They taught me some valuable lessons and we are still very close."
"To share this stable and safe family experience with a child who has only known turmoil is a blessing. Hopefully as adults they can remember what else is out there."