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Minister of Children and Family Services Searle Turton announced new and expanded support for foster, kinship and permanency caregivers through Budget 2026. (Image Credit: Government of Alberta-YouTube)
Provincial Politics

Alberta announces support for caregivers

Jun 15, 2026 | 4:15 PM

The Alberta government has announced an investment of $3.1 million to increase rates for foster, kinship and permanency caregivers, in an effort to strengthen existing supports.

Effective April 1, 2026, government officials say foster, kinship and permanency caregivers received a two per cent rate increase to help cover day-to-day necessities like food, clothing and personal care.

The province says caregiver referral incentives will also be tripled to $1,500, starting June 16. Officials further note, eligibility for the Refer-A-Foster Caregiver program is being expanded beyond current and former foster caregivers to include kinship and permanency caregivers, as well as non-profit organizations such as cultural associations, faith-based and community groups.

“I am grateful to the compassionate and dedicated caregivers across Alberta who open their homes and hearts to children and youth when they need them the most,” said Searle Turton, Minister of Children and Family Services, in a press release Monday. “By strengthening the caregiver program, we are helping ensure more children and youth have access to the stable, loving homes they deserve. I hope that more Albertans will consider becoming caregivers.”

The Alberta government says it is also strengthening support for prospective caregivers to recognize their commitment to the process required to become licensed caregivers. Applicants will receive $1,500 in two instalments: $450 after completing pre-service training and $1,050 once they are fully licensed.

“Alberta Foster and Kinship Association appreciates the Government of Alberta’s continued recognition of the important role foster and kinship caregivers play in supporting children and youth,’ added Cheryl Fix, executive director, Alberta Foster and Kinship Association. “This increase will help manage rising costs and support caregivers to continue to provide safe, stable and nurturing homes for children and youth who cannot remain at home with their families.” 

According to provincial officials, Alberta is launching a new online portal to give caregivers secure access to information and services including the ability to submit claims online, informed by feedback gathered during the 2024 roundtable discussions with kinship and foster caregivers.

Alberta government quick facts

Alberta currently has:

  • 1,476 licensed foster caregiver homes
  • 2,126 approved kinship care providers
  • about 4,500 families providing permanent homes through adoption or private guardianship