Featured Foster Family: August
Curious about becoming a foster parent? Check out our interview with one of our wonderful clients! Hear from RH, one of our amazing foster parents on how she decided it was the right time, her favorite moment so far, and her advice for anyone interested in pursuing a similar path.
What motivated you to open your home and heart to children in need?
I really just wanted to be a safe place for a child. My husband and I were in that same mindset; we wanted to provide a safe and loving home for a child, even if it were temporary.
How did you decide it was the right time to start fostering?
We had recently relocated from Oregon to California, and I'd become a stay-at-home mom, whereas in the past I'd always worked full-time. We had a four-bedroom house, and at that time we only had two children, so we had the space available.
What made you decide to go with EA Family Services?
I had joined a group called MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), and one of the people in the group had worked with EA. She had told us about her foster care experience, so when we decided to pursue it, we went with the one we were familiar with.
What have you learned as a foster parent?
There are a lot of different ways to answer that... the learning curve is really steep. It takes a while to figure out how to navigate the bureaucracy of the system. And even with a great placement, and a great child, and a great home experience, it can still be heart-wrenching.
What has been your best moment as a foster parent?
I'm trying not to be emotional... when you successfully bring a child out of a dark situation, or a dark place, and you see them just blossom in front of you, it's amazing.
Is there any advice you'd offer to people interested in fostering?
Well, they certainly should be prepared for the bureaucracy. But even with all the highs and lows involved, it's absolutely worth it.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I've been really happy working with EA and all their staff. Going through an FFA (Foster Family Agency) as opposed to County, is certainly a choice. We're really grateful for all the training, and the people we work with at EA.
Interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent? Get in touch with us today!