For Wollongong retiree Libby Wilson*, the sound of children’s laughter is one of life’s greatest joys.

"When they're happy and they're laughing and enjoying themselves, and they're not caught up in the trauma they have been removed from, it's amazing, really fantastic," she says.

Libby became a short-term and emergency foster carer with CatholicCare in 2023. After retiring two years earlier, she was searching for something meaningful to do that would give back to her community.

"I was searching for something to get involved in, but I thought I'd left it too late for foster care – but then I discovered that wasn't a problem and this is just a perfect fit for me," she explains. "I had the spare room and was no longer working so I was able to finally do it."

Inspired to Act

The decision came after she read about CatholicCare’s urgent need for foster carers in her church’s bulletin. On the very same day, she also watched a message from Bishop Brian Mascord, encouraging people to consider fostering.

That moment sealed her commitment.

"Being able to give a young child a place where they can come when all else has failed them, where they can have a good time and feel safe, it's very rewarding."

Support and Confidence

Although nervous at first, Libby says the training and support she received from CatholicCare gave her the confidence to step into her new role.

"There was the fear of the unknown, of course, but CatholicCare is great for support. You have a caseworker that's just a phone call away if you're ever not sure about things, so you've always got help. And we have a support network group that we meet with regularly with other carers and the kids. It's a time to network and to talk about issues."

The training, she adds, was eye-opening. "You think you know things after many, many years, and then you realise there's so much more to learn about understanding children's behaviours and the different methods of how to approach a situation."

Life as a Carer

Since beginning her journey, Libby has cared for several children between the ages of five and twelve. Her focus is on giving each child a warm, comfortable, and fun experience.

"I just try to make the stay as pleasant as possible, and give each one what it is they need," she says.

That often means outings to playgrounds, trips to indoor play centres, and creative afternoons filled with art, cooking, and card games.

"We visit playgrounds and rate each one, and there are big warehouses where you can play on inflatable things. That's a lot of fun. But mostly lots of card games and art making, plus many bedtime stories and a tuck-in at night. Being able to give that to them is something really fantastic."

A Message for Others

Now settled into her role, Libby hopes her story will inspire others — especially retirees — to consider fostering.

"I'd love to appeal to other retirees out there who maybe have an empty house and wish to fill it up with laughter."

To learn more about becoming a foster carer and to have a positive impact on a child's life call 0418 783 956 or email fosteringfutures@catholiccare.dow.org.au to start the conversation. 

*Name changed for privacy.