Stories

I entered foster care at the age of 16 with my 4 younger brothers that were 6 years old and younger. Our parents had serious drug problems and were very violent to each other and we didn't have a lot of money. We lived in cars, shelters, friends and family's houses. DHS said our house…

Bittersweet is an understatement. Giving a child back to their mama more than 500 days after they arrived in your home feels impossible. Every night, books are read, songs are sung, prayers are prayed, and we gently close this door saying, "Goodnight, _____. I love you." Soon enough, the door will stay open. No more…

Last year, a timid wobbler walked into our home with her caseworker on a dark, dreary December night. Her curly hair stood straight up, and her big brown eyes were wide and frightened. As her caseworker set her down, she stood for a moment...then slowly toddled over to me and put her arms up--the universal…

This note was found in a DHS office in Southern Oregon, written by a child in foster care. To see more stories like this, please follow Every Child Oregon on Facebook.

On Friday at 4:30 I picked up the phone and heard my DHS certifier’s voice, Emily, on the other end. I adore her. She works hard, advocates fiercely and speaks gently and professionally. It had been 18 months since she had celebrated with my family at the courthouse in downtown Multnomah County. Emily was there…