Maria K. Stafford Springs, CT I was 11 months old when I entered the foster care system, where I would reside for more than a decade of my life. During my time in foster care, my body stored the feeling of being
Martisha W. Haslett, Michigan My journey to get where I am now was difficult as a former foster youth. I have faced many obstacles that, at the time, seemed impossible to overcome. In my final year of high school, I experienced a
Ellena J. Seattle Washington As an alumnus of the foster care system and now an elementary school teacher, I feel deeply honored when I am the chosen adult for my students. I know, from my experience in care, how difficult it can
Dina S. Jacksonville, FL I met my mentor when I was 17 years old. At the time, I didn’t realize how vital our relationship would be for my growth. I knew adoption was not the right choice for me. However, I didn’t
Precious F. Plymouth, Michigan Dear World, Not every youth in foster care gets adopted, and while it is a beautiful experience to have adults commit to you, it often comes with conditions. As a foster care alumni, I am seeking unconditional love and
Ralynn F. Lake City, FL My name is Ralynn Floyd. I have been in foster care for almost 15 years. The journey wasn’t always easy because I was too young to understand what was happening. As I got older, I became stubborn
Essence F. Jackson, MS What are personal connections? How supportive is your support system? Who makes up your support system? If you can answer these three questions with no hesitation, kudos, you are a part of something rare and remarkable. On the
Izzy W. Maple Lake, Minnesota When I think of important permanent connections and supportive people, I think of my grandmother. Throughout most of my life, she has been there. Without her guidance, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. I think
KeShuna B. Wichita Falls, Texas If I’m writing from my heart, a permanent connection is something I’ve never experienced. To me, the connection leaves when you leave care. I aged out of foster care at 19. For me, that’s when life started. Although
Zeke P. Des Moines, Iowa Have you ever wondered what goes unnoticed within the system? It may surprise you, but approximately 420,000 youth are in foster care in the United States, with a national average of 55 kids going missing in a
