Minister of Culture and Social Rehabilitation Neletha Butterfield has urged more people to become foster parents.

On Friday, in the House of Assembly Ms Butterfield announced that May is Foster Care Month adding that there were several ways the public can assist the more than 100 youths whose families are unable to care for them.

She said the general public can help through businesses, schools and churches. She said they can help spread the word by distributing promotional materials such as fact sheets, brochures and posters.

"The overall aim of highlighting this month is to raise public awareness on the topic of foster care and foster parenting," she told the House of Assembly. "Also, we salute and honour the compassionate people that make a difference by serving as foster parents, caregivers, mentors, and other unsung heroes.

"We urge more people to join the ranks of these heroes. Every young person in foster care benefits from a meaningful connection to a caring adult who becomes a supportive and lasting presence in his or her life. Now is the time to get involved."

Ms Butterfield was quick to point out that even people with busy schedules can find time to help. She said tutoring a child, mentoring or helping them acquire new skills could make a meaningful impact on them.

A tag day for Foster Care Month is to be held on May 14 and a special church service by the Foster parents Association will take place May 23 at 11 a.m. at Bethel A.M.E. Church. And The Foster Parent Association has been selected to be this year's charity for the annual May 24 Marathon Derby.