By CHERIE TAYLOR in Taupo
Lee Cousins may not be able to see the world but she knows all about what the region's neglected, abused and needy children face.
She has experienced their plight first hand.
For the past 18 years the blind Taupo woman and her husband Bernie Cousins have been Child, Youth and Family Service caregivers, offering a home and plenty of love to children.
They have two children of their own - Clinton, 32, and 16-year-old Scott - and became caregivers of other people's children by chance.
"We knew a social worker and then we seemed to just fall into it," Mrs Cousins said.
Many of the situations the children came from left them feeling isolated and alone but they soon fitted in, she said.
"By the time they get here they don't have much left - just their dignity. We try to help fill in that gap for them."
The couple have lost count of the number of babies, children and teenagers who have joined their family.
Mrs Cousins said it didn't take much to be a foster parent.
"Just be yourself, be flexible, patient, consistent and confident. You can't afford to be indecisive."
Treating the children as they would their own was important, said Mrs Cousins.
"We treat them as though they are a regular member of the family and they respond well to that. Yes, you have your moments. You have to have a laugh sometimes or you'll go nuts."
Being blind hadn't been a barrier. In fact, it forced the children to talk more and in the case of younger children, helped develop their speech skills, Mrs Cousins said.
"It's no good them pointing ... they soon learn they have to ask for things they want."
For children who were streetwise or thought they were owed something for their plight, there was soon a rude awakening, she said.
"I always say to them it is a privilege not a right to live here and that they are a part of our family now."
Being a foster parent wasn't glorious and the rewards could be few and far between but it was certainly worthwhile, Mrs Cousins said.
"There is no recognition from doing this job but it's great when you see a little life change."'
Mr Cousins said when it came time to hand back their charges, they looked on it as positive although it was particularly tough to part with children they had fostered long-term.
"I like to think we have had an influence on their future because they have seen a stable, secure upbringing. I would like to think we have had a huge influence on them that carries on for the rest of their lives."
Taupo social worker Dorothy Tasker said there was a shortage of social workers nationwide and it took a special person to be able to care for another's child.
"You don't have to be a couple but people who have had experience bringing up their own kids have a lot to offer these kids," she said.
"It's very rewarding."
Anyone wanting to inquire about fostering can contact their local Child, Youth and Family Service liaison social worker to be sent information and an application form.
Changing lives the reward for mum
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