With two decades of experience, ICIF Terres de l'Ebre is commemorating this milestone with a special event. The gathering aims to highlight the progress made, the crucial role of foster and adoptive families, as well as the professionals involved, and to reaffirm the ongoing commitment to the well-being of the region's children and adolescents.
Antoni Gilabert, president of the Consell Comarcal del Baix Ebre, emphasized the importance of bringing this service closer to the territory. "Behind the numbers are many human stories," he stated, underscoring the commitment to providing accessible and high-quality care. In this regard, construction has begun on "La Caseta," a new space designated for family visits and placements, which promises to significantly enhance the quality of family encounters by offering a warmer and more suitable environment.
Over the years, ICIF has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for evolution, adapting to social changes and the evolving needs of children. It has incorporated greater specialization in key areas such as trauma, attachment, grief, identity, and child development. Maribel Meix, ICIF coordinator, reiterated that "the child remains at the center of all decisions," stressing the necessity of listening to each child to safeguard their rights and well-being.
The commemoration also served to recognize the essential work of foster and adoptive families. "Fostering is not about erasing a child's past, but about helping them live with their history and offering them new experiences of trust, care, and belonging," explained Meix. The event brought together around 200 people and included workshops, performances, and children's activities, as well as the awarding of the Fundació Fornós Jornet scholarship for Talent and Resilience to young people who grew up in foster families.
