Journey of Hearts: Genevieve’s Story – A Family Connection, Babies and Cuddles

Discover Genevieve’s journey into fostering babies and how she found her niche in caring for little ones. Learn how Origins Foster Care supports carers every step of the way and how you can take the first step in making a difference.

Fostering is a journey filled with love, patience, and the ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children who need it most. For Genevieve, an Origins foster carer, fostering has always been part of her life – growing up in a family that fostered gave her a deep understanding of how a strong, supportive community can help children thrive and make a lasting impression that can be felt for generations to come.

A Lifelong Calling

Genevieve was raised with the idea that 'it takes a village to raise a child'. Having had foster sisters herself, she always knew that fostering was something she wanted to do. When her own children were young, she stayed at home with them, and as they grew older, she found herself at a crossroads – return to work or finally take the step into fostering.

It was beautiful because I made the call. I said, look, this is what I'm interested in and this is what you do, which was brilliant

It was at that moment she made the call to Origins Foster Care. “It starts with the first phone call – and I was guided the whole way,” she recalls. From the initial enquiry to the matching process, Genevieve describes the experience as reassuring and well-supported.

Finding the Right Fit

One of the most important aspects of fostering is matching a child with the right family. At Origins, we take great care in ensuring that each placement is carefully considered, looking at everything from existing family dynamics to the individual needs of the child. Genevieve found this process invaluable.

“At the start, the process seems long, but it’s actually a lovely reflection on yourself. It helps you understand the type of fostering that suits you best.”

For Genevieve, that meant caring for babies. “My niche? I call them the ‘Smallies’ – the cuddles, the little chats, the quiet moments of connection.” With older children in her own home, she knew that caring for infants would be the best fit for her family.

The Everyday Joys of Fostering

Fostering isn’t just about providing a home – it’s about offering a sense of stability, safety, and love. For babies, the need for attachment and nurturing is especially crucial. Genevieve highlights the small but powerful moments that make fostering so rewarding – the first smiles, the little chats, the comforting cuddles, the way a child begins to trust and feel secure.

These moments are the foundation of a child’s early development. A safe and loving foster home can provide the consistency that helps a baby form secure attachments, setting them up for a stronger future.

Why More Foster Carers Are Needed for Babies

Right now, there is a significant need for foster carers who are open to caring for infants. Babies often come into care due to complex family circumstances, and they require a stable environment where they can develop physically and emotionally. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, Genevieve’s story is a testament to the impact you can have.

Support Every Step of the Way

Becoming a foster carer is a big decision, but you’ll never be alone in the process. Origins Foster Care provides:

  • Comprehensive training to prepare you for the realities of fostering.
  • 24/7 support from a dedicated team who are always there to guide you.
  • A careful matching process that ensures you’re well-suited to the children placed in your care.
  • A community of foster carers to connect with and learn from.

Thinking About Fostering? Take the First Step

For Genevieve, making the call was the start of something life-changing. If you’re considering fostering, reach out to Origins today. Whether you’re interested in caring for babies, older children, or teenagers, we’ll help you find the right fit for your family.

Start your journey today by applying to become a foster carer online – because every child deserves a safe, loving home, and every foster carer deserves the support to make it possible.

A portrait photo of Eithne Larkin, a team member at Origins Foster Care smiling and looking at the camera.
Written by:
Eithne LarkinEithne Larkin
March 4, 2025
Get in touch

Reach out for any questions and enquiries. A member of our fostering team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Thinking about fostering?
Make your enquiry today.
Apply now
Contact form
We are always happy to receive your messages.
Contact us
087 052 9749
Social Work Placement Referrals
Tel. 01 9079196 / placements@originsfostercare.ie