Left: Kayne and Adam have struck up a solid By Callan Date
ADAM Hughes and new foster son Kayne have one special relationship.
In fact the whole Hughes family have taken to Kayne, 14, like he is one of their own.
The bond began with a weekly meeting between the two and has now turned into a full time foster care relationship.
Their union originated from the burgeoning Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) program being run throughout the City of Casey by the YMCA.
Mr Hughes said the partnership had been a win-win situation since they were first matched together by BBBS staff.
“Myself and my wife (Joy) feel like we have won the lotto,” he said.
The Cranbourne West couple have two sons in their 20s and the addition of Kayne to the family has only been a positive, Mr Hughes said.
“It was never the intention to become foster carers at the start but it just developed that way.”
BBBS Casey program director Rebecca Wolstenholme said the foster relationship was an Australian first for the program.
“We feel privileged to have placed these two together and to see such an amazing outcome,” she said.
“We know this program is so important for the young people in our community and have seen the changes it has brought to so many kids’ lives.”
Mr Hughes said he hoped their story would enlighten more people to the opportunities that the BBBS program presented.
“The rewards are just endless – I can’t speak highly enough of the program.
“If we are lucky to get one extra person to volunteer as a mentor into the program it would be great,” he said.
Ms Wolstenholme said BBBS Casey has been inundated with referrals, particularly from boys, most of whom have had no positive interaction with any male figure in their lives.
Local community groups are also getting behind the program with financial help. The Rotary Club of Endeavour Hills recently donated $4000.
“This will allow us to match at least two of the 70 plus young people who have been waiting for a Big Sister or Big Brother.”
For more information about the program or to offer support contact Rebecca on 9705 5033.
