Bermuda’s foster parents were thanked over the weekend with a special tea at the Fairmont Southampton.

The Appreciation Tea, organised by the Ministry of Social Development and Sports in conjunction with the Department of Child and Family Service, presented foster parents with certificates and awards to thank them for their contribution to Bermuda’s youth.

And this year, frequent respite caregivers were also praised for their commitment to supporting the community.

This year’s keynote speaker was Cole Simmons, a young Bermudian male who journeyed through the foster care system and rose above all adversity throughout high school and young adulthood to become “a successful member of society”.