Minister of Labor and Social Policy Spiro Ristovski and Macedonian Red Cross representatives met Monday with foster families at the Skopje territory.

"A wise saying goes 'Don't see the child as a gem, but try to make it one'. I see here many people who are trying to make children such gems, giving them love first, but also care, attention and proper upbringing", said Minister Ristovski.

He added they are the most humane people in society, whereas fostering is the closest form to a biological family.

"We will continue to motivate and support foster families, since the effect of children's development within such environment is very positive", stressed Ristovski.

There are 155 foster families nationwide, taking care of 220 orphans. Foster parents need to be psycho-physically fit and have proper housing. Teams from the social welfare centers constantly monitor foster families, securing the proper execution of undertaken commitments.

Minister Ristovski and the Red Cross also donated food and hygiene packages to foster families in light of the New Year.