Foster Family Friday - Melissa!

We couldn’t let #fosterfamilyfriday pass without recognizing this one in a million foster mom who continues to welcome kids into her home after 17 years!

When Melissa was first interested in learning more about foster care and adoption, a friend invited her to an informational meeting at Medina County Job and Family Services where she was surprised to learn there were kids in foster care right here in Medina County. She became licensed for foster care in 2004 and has been opening her home to kids of all ages and backgrounds ever since.

One of Melissa’s first placement calls was for a large sibling group, and she agreed to placement for three of the six children. She learned that these children had been in and out of the foster care system since birth. After returning to biological family and back to her home, Melissa finalized adoption of Brittany, Jeffrey, and Jonathan in 2013. Since adopting, Melissa has continued to foster, and estimates she has provided care for more than 100 kids over the past 17 years.

What advice would you give to someone considering fostering?
Be confident, but also be ready to accept help from others. Don’t get stuck in stereotypes about the kids and their families. Always be learning – you’ll learn something from one kid that you can apply for the next ten. Routine, routine, routine.

What are some of the best parts of being a foster mom?
You get to see the growth in the children placed in your home from the day they come into your home to the day they leave. It doesn’t matter if it’s been 2 weeks or 2 years, you get to step back and see the difference you made and it’s very rewarding to see the things that are happening because of what you did.

What impact do you hope to leave on children placed in your home?
I want them to know they’ve been listened to, that they’re safe, and that they’re supported.
Melissa, it would be impossible for us to quantify the positive impact you’ve had on children in Medina County. Your open heart and desire to meet kids where they are while providing a sense of structure, stability, and safety is truly exemplary. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to helping kids and their families!

We need more foster parents like Melissa!
Call Layne at (330) 635-9165 to find out how you can help kids in Medina County.