The Ministry of Children and Family Development is increasing foster parent mileage rates in recognition of the rising costs of travel.

Anyone who has children understands that travel for activities such as swimming lessons, soccer practice, or even emergency hospital trips can put pressure on a family budget. Currently, the family care rate paid to foster parents varies from $800 to more than $3,000 a month, depending on the level of care provided and the number of children in care. This is intended to cover the regular ongoing costs of raising a child which includes transportation to an upper limit of 325 kilometers. Beyond this limit is considered exceptional travel and is billed to government at a rate of 30 cents per kilometer. This rate will now be increased to 51 cents. The increase will also apply to those caring for children under the extended family program.

The change comes in direct response to discussions with the BC Federation of Foster Parent Association (BCFFPA), which has asked that the mileage rate increase in response to rising gas prices and other costs, and to better support families in rural and remote areas.

October is Foster Family Month in British Columbia, an opportunity to celebrate the selfless commitment of the province’s approximately 3,200 foster parents, and encourage others to step up and embrace this rewarding challenge. Every day, these dedicated families help close to 5,900 children and teens navigate the most challenging times of their young lives.

Media Contacts:

Sheldon Johnson
Media Relations Manager
Ministry of Children and Family Development
250 356-1639