Volunteering with Berry Street — a journey worth taking

May 21, 2025

**Berry Street foster carers Allison and Justin Sullivan.** Photo by Taylah Baker

For over 140 years, Berry Street has dedicated itself to creating safe and nurturing environments for young people that have faced challenges far beyond their years.

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Five months ago, newly accredited foster carers Justin and Allison Sullivan welcomed their first ‘little person’ into their home, a possibility made real by the guidance of Berry Street.

“We learnt so much,” Mr Sullivan said.

“And we learnt more about ourselves and our family,” Mrs Sullivan said.

While the experience has been personally rewarding, witnessing their little person’s growth — talking, crawling, walking and developing connections — has been the most fulfilling part of it all.

“We always talk about ‘It takes a village to raise a child’, and by being with Berry Street, you could be part of that village to help make a difference and raise a child,” Mr Sullivan said.

“It’s certainly a journey, but it’s one worth taking.”

Anyone can become a foster carer with Berry Street.

If you are over 21 years old, have a spare bedroom, are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, are willing to undergo compliance checks, and — most importantly — can provide a safe and nurturing home environment, you too can become a foster carer.

For more information, email fostercare@berrystreet.org.au, call the Shepparton office on 5822 8100, or visit berrystreet.org.au/you-can-help/become-a-foster-carer