May is National Foster Care Month: Be a Hero to a Foster Kid!

Below you will find Desiree’s heartfelt story. It offers a window into how difficult it can be to develop the courage and strength to change, and how Raintree helps youth in our community find stability in a safe environment.

Fifteen-year-old Desiree came to the Raintree House in October of last year as the pandemic raged on. Desiree had bounced between family members’ homes and a potential adoptive placement, as her mother is not in her life and her father is incarcerated.

Desiree never stayed in one home too long as she had trouble respecting adults, would get into fights, and had poor school attendance.

When she first arrived at Raintree, Desiree’s behavioral issues persisted, and she had difficulty adapting to the structured environment of the Raintree House. Her behavior troubles spilled into school life and made virtual learning difficult.

The Raintree House’s team developed a plan of action with Desiree, encouraging her to create firm goals. The staff saw potential in Desiree and encouraged her to trust them in

guiding her.

Your support helps Raintree House participants create and reach self-inspiring goals to help them successfully transition from foster care to permanency and from teenagers to young adults.

In a short amount of time, Desiree started to turn things around. Her natural leadership skills emerged. She started focusing more on school, she got a part-time job, she was in fewer altercations with others, and she has been communicating more effectively with her family.

Her ultimate goal of reunification with her family is now within reach. Your support helps make this possible and offers the encouragement Desiree needs to continue down a healthy path.

During the month of May, we are highlighting Desiree’s story, in honor of National Foster Care Month. She is just one of many youths participating in the Raintree House residency program who benefit from your generosity.

Will you help us recognize National Foster Care Month by continuing to support Raintree and help Desiree reunite with her family? She and other foster youth need your support to help beat the odds.

There are nearly 4,000 children in Louisiana waiting for someone to give them a chance to feel safe and loved. You can be a child’s hero with a gift of $25, $50, $100, or more. You have the power to give children like Desiree the care and support they need to thrive.

At Raintree, we respect everyone who comes to us for help. So while their stories are true, client names and images may have been changed to protect their privacy. Thank you for understanding.