Finding Refuge
Your gift provided safety to a child in crisis
When schools closed down in March of last year, there were many kids left feeling uncertain. But Joseph was not one of them – the process of going to school each day had become a trigger for the abuse he suffered at home. For him the ability to eventually attend school virtually made learning easier and having a foster mom who also taught in the school was just a pure blessing.
Months before the world declared a pandemic, Joseph’s life was already in crisis. For more than a year, department of social services was providing his family prevention services working to stabilize his home and keep it safe for him. At age 9, the physical abuse from his parents escalated and was witnessed in front of his elementary school. An emergency removal took place the first day of 2020 and he walked away from home with only the clothes he was wearing.
But because of your generosity, Joseph had a first night backpack in his hands that very first night away from home. He was able to walk into his new foster home with a few belongings of his own – pajamas, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and even a blanket to keep him warm.
“This has been an unbelievably difficult time for all parents, but through it all these foster families are still opening their homes, opening their hearts and taking in kids who need a home,” shares HumanKind Foster Care caseworker Molly. Because of you, lives are transformed, and families are restored.
Transitioning into a new school to start the year after such trauma was extremely difficult. He struggled with aggression, tantrums, and several behavioral issues in the classroom. Having his foster mom in the same school provided additional support, but not enough to ease the memories. And then the coronavirus set in, and schools closed.
School resumed after a few weeks – but only virtually. Suddenly the emotional triggers associated with attending school for Joseph were gone. His behavior and frustration subsided. He learned that fourth grade wasn’t so bad. His grades improved and his foster family saw the blessing found in distance learning.
Help ensure every child has a first night backpack
when they come into care. You can donate items from the most needed list HERE.
You transformed Joseph’s life. Without you, he would have had a very different journey through crisis. Every day there are children, who much like Joseph, need someone to stand for them. Because of you and your support, help and resources are ready and waiting for a child in need.