The week highlights the vital work of the foster carers who provide a home for the 5000 Victorian children who can't live safely in their first home.

Dr Lynette Buoy, chief executive of the Centre for Excellence in Child and Family Welfare, said about 1700 households provided foster care in Victoria, but more were needed.

"Becoming a foster parent is an opportunity to change a child's life," Dr Buoy said.

"People may be surprised to learn that anyone who's over 20 and can offer a young person in need a secure, caring environment is eligible to become a foster carer."

Foster Care Association of Victoria executive officer Katie Hooper said: "This campaign is a chance for people to think more about being a foster carer, to contact the hotline or book themselves into an information session at their local foster care agency."

Good Shepherd Youth and Family Services' manager of family and community services, Simone Rutherfurd, said it was hard to find safe, loving homes for all the children needing care.

"All sorts of people can be foster carers and carers are needed from all cultures, backgrounds and lifestyles."

Foster carers can choose the length and type of care most suited to them, from occasional respite weekends to longer-term care.

Salvation Army Westcare social worker Bruce Cameron said care was needed for children from a few days old right up to the teenage years.

"During September, we'll be partnering with Caroline Springs, Deer Park and Sunshine libraries to give away free rainbow hair extensions to promote foster care."

Extensions and foster care information will be stocked at the libraries until the end of the month.

Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service St Albans will hold an information evening from 6.30-7.30pm next Wednesday, September 21. Bookings: 92709351.

For more details on foster care, visit www.fosterabrighterfuture.com.au< p>

-Benjamin Millar