A foster parent finds her calling.
If you had told me 10 years ago that I would become a foster parent, I probably would have thought you were ridiculous. I did not think that I had it in me. I had my own kids and grandchildren to watch, and I was just about to begin enjoying my retirement.
It was not until my granddaughter was born that I ever thought becoming a foster parent was for me. Her paternal grandparents were also foster parents, and I could not help but love their foster children as my own. The children came to my home every weekend, wanting to spend time with “grandma,” as they called me. I knew that there are children out there without a grandma in their lives. There are children out there without a mama in their lives, too, and it broke my heart to think about it. I knew that I had love to offer these children.
I went through the training and certification process with Child and Family Services and have been a foster parent for six years to numerous children who all still call me grandma. Becoming a foster parent is not always easy. There are trainings, background checks, court appearances and children who have gone through more in their young lives than many of us will ever experience. Yet, I take great pride in knowing I am the one to keep children safe, secure, and loved. My journey of becoming a foster parent is one I hope will inspire others to open their homes and hearts to children in need.
You do not need to be perfect to be a foster parent. With the right guidance and support, you might surprise yourself.
* Name has been changed to ensure client confidentiality.