Foster parents of 1000 kids celebrated

By Celia Paul

A COUPLE who have fostered more than 1000 children were recognised at the 2007 Islington Civic Awards this week.

Sandra and Patrick Shiels, who were nominated for the awards by their daughter Annmarie Porter, have been foster carers in Islington for more than 30 years.
Over that time they have adopted eight children, and are in the process of adopting another. Mrs Shiels has even taken in whole families, while her husband redecorated their homes for free.
Ms Porter said: “All of us are proud to be a part of such a big and diverse family, aged from six years of age to 62.
Mum and Dad have worked so hard, they really deserve this, especially because Dad has been having health problems lately.”
A total of ten local residents who are deeply involved in community work in the borough received awards. Other recipients of the annual awards included Perry Fung, centre manager of the Islington Chinese Association and Lunita Williams, a volunteer at Canonbury School.
Council leader James Kempton said: “These awards are about people who work tirelessly and selflessly for the good of others – who aren’t motivated by glory or honours but by giving something back to the community.”
Islington Mayor Jyoti Vaja said: “Ihese people offer others in the borough motivation and energy.”