“Foster parents are not just temporary homes...they are lifelong connections who support children —and sometimes families —through good and bad times. ”
Thankful hearts
While sitting at Melissa’s final high school soccer game, Maria reflected on the day that would change her life and the role that she never imagined she would take on. As a single mother and a dedicated nurse, her life was already filled with responsibilities. So when her daughter, Michelle, approached her about becoming a foster parent for Cindy, a friend who was in need, Maria was overwhelmed with doubt.
“I don’t know, Michelle. What if I’m not the person to help Cindy? What if I don’t have the time?” Maria responded.
Her daughter looked at her and said, “Mom, why not you? You’ve been there for Cindy more than anyone I can think of. You’ve spent time talking to her and helping her make better decisions.”
After a few days of reflection and conversations with Cindy and her social worker, Maria took a leap of faith and said yes.
Fast forward five years: Maria not only opened her home to Cindy but eventually welcomed more than 12 foster children in total. As she and Melissa’s biological family cheered Melissa on for her final time on the field, Maria reflected on how it all began: with Cindy, her daughter’s friend, who needed a safe place to belong while her family was healing.
Becoming a foster parent changed Maria’s life. For five years, she provided children with a safe place to stay and formed lifelong connections, even with those who returned home to live with their parents, were adopted, or decided to stay with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families past their 18th birthday.
Every day, foster parents like Maria, and their families, open their hearts and homes to children in need of stability, love and a sense of belonging.
Across Massachusetts, social workers witness the incredible work that foster parents do every day. They create a space for children to heal and grow. As we enter a season of gratitude, the Department of Children and Families would like to thank all of the parents who took the first step toward caring for the children who need it most.
Many foster parents are everyday people (like Maria) who never imagined making this step, but felt a desire to support and make a difference in a child’s life.
Becoming a foster parent is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. By opening your heart and home, you can provide an environment for a child or youth in need, help them navigate challenging times, and offer them support they may not receive otherwise. With the support of DCF, you won’t be alone on this journey. Foster parents are not just temporary homes for our most vulnerable children and youth; they are lifelong connections who support children —and sometimes families —through good and bad times.
If you ever considered opening your home to a foster child, let this be your sign. Becoming a foster parent could change a child’s life, and yours too. Contact us to learn more about becoming a foster parent.