In a world where empathy sometimes feels scarce, a recent Facebook post by foster mom Lisa has struck a chord, going viral for shedding light on the heart-wrenching realities faced by foster children. This poignant message has garnered over 42,000 shares and 6 million views in just days, igniting conversations about the urgent need for compassion and support.
“Court day,” she began, sharing her experience. “I had to grip the table to steady my shaking hands. The proceedings felt more like a cold legal formality than a human experience. ‘Does anyone want this child? No? Okay, we’ll be back in a few weeks to wrap things up.’”
As she continued, Lisa reflected on the young boy sitting beside her, a child she deeply cares about, silently battling tears as he absorbed every word. “This boy deserves so much more than this,” she wrote.
Lisa, who is a foster parent to a 14-year-old son and the biological mother of two toddlers, emphasized the unrealistic expectations society places on foster kids. “We expect them to behave like model citizens,” she said. “Yet we send them off to live with strangers, often with their belongings stuffed in trash bags, and then expect them to cope with the emotional turmoil alone at school. When they act out, we label them as troublemakers.”
Her message highlights a critical shortage of foster parents and the necessity for wider community involvement. “Why are juvenile detention centers overflowing? Because our courtrooms are empty,” she concluded.
Her journey into fostering began when she and her husband researched adoption options, leading to a painful realization of the overwhelming need for safe, loving homes for children in their community. “Once you see it, you can’t unsee it,” Lisa shared. “You start to hear the voices and see the faces of children who desperately need stability and care.”
According to the Child Welfare Information Gateway, as of September 30, 2015, there were around 427,910 children in foster care, with the average age being 6 years old. Most children stay in the system for one to two years, which emphasizes the importance of foster parents who can provide immediate support.
While the path to becoming a foster parent varies by state, it often includes background checks, interviews, and home visits. Lisa mentioned that the toughest part of the process was getting their home licensed. However, she believes the rewards far outweigh the challenges.
For those unable to foster, there are still many ways to make a difference, such as becoming a respite care provider or volunteering with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters. Even simple acts, like donating supplies to local foster families, can significantly impact a child’s life. “Find out who the foster families are in your community,” Lisa advised. “Drop off a meal, a pack of granola bars, or even basic supplies like toilet paper. Small gestures mean the world.”
In whatever capacity you can help—whether as a foster parent, mentor, or supporter—now is the time to take action. “These kids need you,” Lisa emphasized. “They need your messy home, your busy life, and yes, even your off-key singing in the car.”
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In summary, Lisa’s heartfelt post serves as a reminder that foster children are in desperate need of love, support, and understanding. By opening our hearts and homes, we can truly make a difference in their lives.