On the International Day of Families, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Evis Sala, in a conversation with foster and adoptive families at the "Hannah and Rozafa" Infant Home, praised the irreplaceable role of the family in the well-being of children and the initiatives that the Albanian government is undertaking to strengthen social protection and alternative care, with a focus on the child and his or her upbringing in a safe and loving family environment.
"The family is the foundation of society. Children are our wealth and every child deserves to grow up in a family. In a family that provides love, security and protection. And when it is impossible for the biological family to provide this support, it is our duty as a society and institution to offer them a family, which is why foster and adoptive families have a special role in this regard", said Minister Sala.
With a focus on the family and its importance in the healthy development of children, Minister Sala brought to attention policies for strengthening and supporting the biological family, raising society's awareness of adoption, strengthening inter-institutional cooperation, social support for children and families, as well as promoting alternative care for children at risk and outside parental care.
The Minister emphasized the importance of the new Law “On Alternative Family Care”, which creates a new support mechanism for foster families, empowering them as the best alternative for raising children outside of parental care. This law will financially support about 150 professional foster families, who will welcome and care for about 150 children in their family settings.
"The new Law on Alternative Care has helped us by giving us all the basis to truly strengthen the family and to offer these children a family environment, with love, dedication and security. It is very important for society," the minister emphasized.
In conclusion, Minister Sala thanked all actors involved in the protection and care of children, especially adoptive and foster families, national and international partners, as well as the staff of social care institutions for their commitment and humanity.
Currently, the Albanian government is implementing a series of programs to support families and groups in need. The Economic Assistance Scheme supports around 50 thousand families, while the Disability Scheme supports around 70 thousand children and adults. The Network of Residential Social Care Institutions supports around 1,000 residential beneficiaries throughout Albania.
Through the Social Fund, 98 social services have been established with around 46,500 beneficiaries throughout the country, as well as 33 Multifunctional Community Centers for the protection of families, children and youth. Meanwhile, the Social Protection Program supports around 9,200 mothers and their families through social and health insurance subsidies.
With De-Institutionalization, institutions are being transformed into Centers dedicated to supporting families and children at risk, with emergency, alternative, daily, and community services. 2 Children's Homes in Korça and Vlora have been transformed and work will continue on 7 others.
