2025 Conference: Inspiration, Rejuvenation, and a Twist!

The conference was held on October 18 and 19 under the theme “Between Duty and the Heart.” Between the place of love, refuge, and learning that a foster family offers and the laws and regulations that guide its role, it must perform a balancing act. This annual gathering promotes the sharing of experiences between foster families and the acquisition of tools and inspiration.

New families

This year, we had the pleasure of welcoming foster families from the Montreal area, which now forms a single large region with Batshaw. More than 6,500 children in Quebec are now being cared for by our foster families.

A message from Minister Carmant

Minister Lionel Carmant, who was unable to attend our conference, recorded a video message in which he expressed his gratitude and recognized the important work done by Quebec's foster families. He highlighted the key role played by FFARIQ in improving the ministry's general criteria for youth clients. He also took the opportunity to congratulate the foster families who open their hearts and homes to children in need of a roof over their heads and who will have a better future thanks to them.

Message from the Minister

Tools and inspiration

We welcomed speakers Marie-Pierre Joly and Marie-Andrée Poirier. Their understanding of the reality of foster families was evident in their presentation. They introduced two essential books for the foster family toolbox: Albert retourne à la maison (Albert Returns Home) and En route vers ma visite (On the Way to My Visit).

Speaker David Bernard asked foster families some powerful questions. He talked about perceptions of luck and misfortune and how to calm a mind that is spinning out of control. His talk was full of inspiration on how to get to know yourself and take care of yourself so you can better care for others.

A colorful evening!

We first experienced a beautiful moment of emotion when Victoria, a foster child with her parents Suzie Boyer and Laurent Thibodeau, took to the stage to sing a song she had composed. She found the words to express what it is like for a child whose family opens its door and heart to children who are just passing through.

Song of Victoria

The 1950s and 1960s were in the spotlight during the evening. Period costumes, lively music to swing and twist to... the fun was undeniable!

Annual General Meeting

We held our annual general meeting online and in person on Sunday. Host families were interested to see everything that has been accomplished in the last fiscal year and what is on the horizon for 2025-2026. FFARIQ member host families can view the 2024-2025 Activity Report at VotreEspace.ffariq.ca.

We would like to thank the 43 sponsors who enabled us to give $16,420 worth of gifts to our host families, who deserve to be spoiled!

We look forward to seeing you next year in Montreal for a new edition of the conference!