Kerryn Longmuir and her husband Stephen have provided care and love for more than 400 children over the last 39 years. Kerryn is the proud foster mum of babies, children and teenagers in need – regardless of background, disability, race, religion or gender.
Kerryn, who has two biological adult children, was inspired to become a carer after reading a flyer about fostering at a local community fair. After the first experience was a success she continued – sometimes looking after up to seven children at a time.
The couple has continued to foster children even after Stephen was badly injured in a work accident a decade ago.
Now in her 70s, Kerryn’s days can include nursing babies through drug withdrawal, doing school drop-offs and taking kids to sports and community events. Some children only stay for a night, while others have stayed for their entire childhoods. Many still come back to visit.