While some kids hunt for the Easter Bunny and its carefully misplaced eggs, children in foster care may be searching for something else, and while the holidays this weekend should be anything but emotionally stressful, for our kids it can be just that.
For many, the holidays are a time to gather with family. A time to reflect on all the wonderful things in life, while simultaneously chowing down on all the great food and chocolatey-goodness the holidays have to offer. But, for children in foster care, the holidays can be a bitter reminder of their difficult past of abuse and neglect. Foster children often juggle the weight of these previous experiences with the desire to celebrate alongside their birth parents. Celebrating without them can dredge up feelings of guilt.
At holiday times, the coaches at BFF try to give the kids a little extra attention to ensure they feel like they are a part of the BFF family. Yesterday, we received an email from one of our students that reaffirmed the impact we are having:
“Dear Best Foot Forward,
Thank you for everything that you have done for me.
I know you put your time and effort into helping me achieve my goals and encouraging me to aim higher. I appreciate the phone, money, gifts, and supplies. I know how much you care about me and want me to do great in life. Because of you, I am a better student and a better person.”
In order to maintain a sense of normalcy around the Easter holidays, we make it a point to indulge in certain traditions, or should we say candy! We kicked off this year’s Easter holiday with a sweet start. Volunteers from the Junior League came together on their Day of Impact to make candy bags for our kids. We can’t thank them enough for all of their hard work and dedication, and we can’t wait to treat our students!
Whether it’s Easter Sunday, Passover or any day of the week, every child deserves to be celebrated. So, from our BFF family to yours, Happy Holiday!