Caregiver Appreciation

Being in foster care is a life-altering experience. There are so many added obstacles for youth in care to overcome and oftentimes, that includes going through life without an adult, or parent figure, to rely on. Today we are sharing some appreciation for those who stepped up when they didn’t have to!
 

Testimonial #1 (a story): 

"I had to leave college because the pandemic shut everything down. My experiences growing up, and in care, resulted in a lot of unhealthy coping skills. I was functioning, doing all the things adults do - paying my bills, keeping my house clean, working multiple jobs but nothing in my life was fulfilling. I really don’t hate to admit it, I developed a plant collection. I was often cooped up in my house as everyone was because of the pandemic. That is how I met the woman who is now my mama. I bought very thirsty plants from her. Since I found this plant-selling lady on the internet, I made a friend go with me so I didn’t get murdered, you never know. The first day I met her, I was intrigued by her intelligence. I saw something in her eyes that I had never seen before, she was full of what I now know as love. I won’t share all the ups and downs of our relationship (I am difficult to love, although she wouldn’t say that), I will say she has stuck with me for longer than anybody has. With this woman, who never had to care, I am not worried about her leaving me or giving up on me, I have someone I can tell anything to, I have someone who notices me, and encourages me. She has taught me so much about what it means to love others and what it means to love myself. I have unconditional love, I have security. She is still not great at caring for houseplants, but she’s exceptional at caring for humans. I’m blossoming. Mama, thank you for equipping me with the skills and confidence to become a healthier human being. I finally feel like my feet are on the ground. Thank you for sharing your best friend with me too, she’s the best grandma I could have ever asked for. I love you both, so much. "

-C
 

Testimonial 2 (a story):

"I have known Melissa since a week after my 16th birthday. She was one of the people who considered fostering me at that time, but I was taken in by another family before she came to a decision. This however didn’t stop me from seeing her. Things didn’t end up how I practically planned it with my previous foster family, so I soon found myself in an independent living program while I was 17 and newly pregnant. I was struggling with depression and newfound independence; The only support I had during this time was my fiancé who has his own history with the foster care system that unfortunately failed him. I went through some traumatic experiences on my way back to the independent living apartments and was deeply struggling. I called my first foster family to be told they were too busy to be there for me. I sat on the floor of my kitchen sobbing while scrolling through my contacts when my eyes landed to Melissa’s contact. I remembered the last time I talked to her she told me if I ever needed her, she would be there; so, I called hoping she meant what she said. She was there to pick me up within 10 minutes. She was there for me at one of the lowest parts of my life. We started seeing each other daily, Even though she didn’t have to, she took the burden of both my fiancé and I, giving us a real chance at successfully raising our daughter in a stable and happy environment. When the pandemic hit, Melissa went grocery shopping for me as well as spending more than what I gave her. She bought many baby clothes and supplies, supporting me in every way I can think of. I remember expressing my worries to her about my future and expressing the wish of a happy family that would be there for me and love me unconditionally. Little did I know that wish would be brought to life as she said she would be that person for me. She was continuously questioned through the process of trying to foster me, being asked if she knew what she was getting into, but that didn’t stop her from taking me in as hers. I’ve been with Melissa for 2 years, and she plans to adopt me in March 2023. She has allowed both my fiancé and I to pursue college, save money, and raise our daughter in a stable loving home. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my mother and for that I can say that I love her dearly and I appreciate her so greatly."

-Christina Viera
 

Testimonial 3 (a poem):
 

A Mom That Is Not My Mom

A weather and withered bloom
Sheltered and following the moon
Wishing and wondering if God will come soon
A hand reaches out and lights the way
Embraces and keeps me from running a stray
Compliments of growth and beauty
Coupled with care and duty
The duty to mend and understand
That the girl standing tall is one blow from crumbling
A mom that is not my mom has held my hand
And wished to help me stand
Is this malicious intent or a facade that’s been planned
Yet a smile so pure with eyes so calming
Passion and inspiration aura form her stance
A mom that is not my mom
Has done it again
She has warmed my heart and wiped my tears
And debunked my fears
She appreciates me with cheers
I can’t believe how it’s so clear
How my mom who is not my mom is caregiver of the year

- T.M.M.