An individual grew up in foster care and experienced visual impairment at age twelve followed by the deaths of both parents in early adolescence. Multiple placements with relatives and foster parents preceded meeting a dedicated foster parent, Ms. Matthews, who offered patience, guidance, and inclusion. New York City's Administration for Children's Services supports foster youth through initiatives such as foster parent training, College Choice, and Fair Futures. Those programs provide resources and encouragement for college-bound foster youth and help transform the system into a supportive village. The individual expresses gratitude for resources and personal support that enabled greater confidence and opportunities.
This season, students across New York City are going back to college, many with the support of their family members and loved ones who may even pay for resources to assist along the way. Students in foster care, like myself, deserve that same support and encouragement. In New York City, the Administration for Children's Services (ACS) is making that happen in a number of ways, for which I am incredibly grateful.
As someone who grew up in foster care, I know how difficult life can be. I have faced many challenges. I was diagnosed as visually impaired at 12 years old. A few years later, both my parents passed away for different health reasons. There I was in my early teens, legally blind and struggling with the grief of losing the two most important people in my life.
I know that was not easy to do, as I was rebellious and unmotivated about the future. Ms. Matthews did not let that stop her. She treated me as part of her family. Although I was unsure about what I wanted to do in life she kept on offering me guidance, but most of all-grace. I am grateful for her dedication and her belief in me even when I didn't believe in myself.
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