FFARIQ Gives a Voice to Foster Families in a New Podcast Series

This initiative aims to raise awareness among political authorities, the Youth Protection Branch (DPJ), foster families, and anyone affected by the realities on the ground. It provides a better understanding of the human consequences of the rules and practices governing the placement of children under the DPJ’s care.

Three episodes to better understand the reality of foster families

Episode 1 – The Journey of a Local Foster Family Applicant

In this first episode, a local foster family applicant (PFAP) shares her experience and the obstacles she faced in her efforts to be recognized as a local host family.

A moving testimony that offers an inside look at a true struggle.

To preserve her anonymity and protect her from potential reprisals, her name and voice have been altered, and her face has been obscured.

*Take the time to listen to it: https://ffariq.org/en/ffariq/the-podcast-series

Episode 2 – The Inequalities Created by the System

In this second episode, Mélanie Gagnon, president of FFARIQ and a foster parent, speaks with Jean-Marie Lapointe about the rules and practices that create unequal treatment for applicants seeking to become local foster families.

This conversation provides insight into the inconsistencies of the system and their consequences for families and the children they care for.

*Available starting the first week of December 2026.

Episode 3 – The DPJ in Crisis: The Foster Families’ Perspective

Jean-François Rioux, a foster parent for 21 years and FFARIQ’s provincial regional coordinator and training manager, offers an informed perspective on the evolution of the youth protection system. Having served as a BM and an RTF himself, he understands the unique realities of these different statuses.

His role within FFARIQ—the largest union representing foster families in Quebec—allows him to maintain close ties with foster families across eight regions, representing half of Quebec’s administrative regions.

This dual perspective—drawn from his personal experience and his interactions with families on the ground—enables him to offer particularly insightful commentary on the changes observed over the years, the challenges faced by foster families, and the issues facing a youth protection system in crisis.

*Available February 1, 2027.

Giving a Voice to Those Living This Reality

Through this series, FFARIQ aims to look beyond administrative rules to highlight their concrete consequences for children and the people who care for them.

Because behind every status and every decision are children who need stability, support, and kindness.

We invite you to take the time to listen to these conversations and share them to help foster a better understanding of the challenges faced by foster families.

Discover the podcast series