A poignant Facebook post by foster mom Jenna has gone viral, shedding light on the heartbreaking realities that foster children endure every day. The post, shared on her page Foster Your Heart Out, has resonated with thousands, amassing over 42,000 shares and 6 million views in just a few days.
“Today in court,” Jenna wrote, “I had to grip something to steady my shaking hands. The proceedings felt cold and clinical, lacking any empathy. ‘Is there anyone who wants this child? Are you sure? No? Alright, we’ll return in a few weeks to finalize the paperwork.’”
As Jenna continued, she expressed her deep concern for the young boy sitting beside her, who was processing the weight of the situation. “This boy I care so much about was right there, trying to brush away the tears streaming down his face.”
As a foster parent to a 13-year-old son and a biological mother to two young children, Jenna passionately addressed society’s unrealistic expectations of foster kids. “We expect them to act like model citizens, yet we send them to live with strangers, often with their belongings stuffed in trash bags,” she wrote. “Then we throw them into courtrooms filled with proceedings that would rattle any adult. After that, we drop them off at school and shake our heads when they struggle to cope, labeling them as troublemakers when they express their pain.”
Jenna’s message emphasized the urgent need for foster parents and the collective compassion of the community. “Why are juvenile detention centers overflowing? Because our family courts are deserted,” she concluded.
After researching adoption and foster care, Jenna and her husband were struck by the overwhelming necessity for safe and loving homes. “Once you become aware of the need, you can’t ignore it,” she told Home Insemination Kit. “You begin to recognize the faces and hear the cries of children in your community longing for love and stability.”
Statistics from the Child Welfare Information Gateway reveal that as of September 30, 2015, approximately 427,910 children were in foster care, with nearly half placed in non-relative foster homes. The average age of children entering the system was about 6 years old, with most remaining in care for one month to two years.
While the path to becoming a foster parent varies by state, it generally includes background checks, interviews, training, and home evaluations. Jenna noted that getting their home licensed was one of the toughest hurdles, along with helping a teenager learn to accept love despite the difficulties.
Despite the challenges, Jenna believes that fostering is incredibly rewarding. “Even if it feels overwhelming when a child leaves, knowing you made a positive impact on their life is worth it. These kids need love more than you need to shield your heart,” she said.
If fostering isn’t an option for you, there are still many ways to make a difference. For example, you could become a licensed respite care provider for short-term support to foster families. Volunteering with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters or the Boys and Girls Club can create significant positive change in a foster child’s life.
Jenna encourages people to reach out to local foster families. “Cook a meal, drop off snacks, or even basic necessities like toilet paper and baby wipes—these small acts of kindness mean the world,” she suggested. Additionally, sponsoring a foster child to attend summer camp or donating gift cards for birthday presents can have a lasting impact.
In any capacity—whether as a foster parent, mentor, or supporter—now is the time to act. “These kids are counting on you,” Jenna reminded us. “They need your chaotic home, your busy life, and the warmth of your presence.”
Summary
Jenna’s heartfelt Facebook post reveals the emotional struggles faced by foster children and calls for community compassion and support. She highlights the need for foster parents and offers suggestions on how everyone can contribute to making a positive impact in the lives of these vulnerable kids.