Hello, my name is Mani. My experience as a foster youth was a very interesting, educational, and basically a beneficial experience. In the beginning, it was difficult to adapt to the program and its environment. I entered as a teenager and that might have been why it was harder for me to assimilate. However, all the awkwardness soon passed and I realized there was a lot of support I could rely on from this program. I especially enjoyed the diversity that was introduced to me. There were many nationalities and personalities so it was inevitable for me not to learn something new everyday.

There was always an extracurricular activity happening. We had basketball, softball and tennis games and that was the least of it. We also went on field trips to Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, go-cart racing and we engaged in outdoor sports including swimming, camping and hiking. They took us to restaurants such as Black Angus, Sizzlers and Hometown Buffet; I was treated very well. Of course, one was only treated as such if the behavior was exceptional because if not, one was stuck in the house. The opportunity to improve was always available and the activities were twenty -four -seven (well, actually, twenty-one-seven). My point is, one was always acknowledged or rewarded for any and every accomplishment made.

Since I was a young mother in foster care, many sources were available for my child and me. Child care was accessible as well as the opportunity for my child to interact with other babies. They also supplied me with diapers, bottles, clothes, and formula, and every necessity needed for my child and me was taken care of. Pregnancy was also enjoyable; we had an on-site nursing office and Lamaze classes to prepare me for my labor and delivery. The most enjoyable part of my experience was being able to choose one of my friends to accompany me throughout my labor.

Since then, I have successfully emancipated and obtained a high school diploma. I attend Concorde Career College hoping to become a Licensed Insurance Coder and Billing Specialist. With the help of an extended foster care program (ILP), I am able to pay for tuition, books, and additional supplies. If it were not for my experience as a foster youth, I would not be where I am today. I am currently residing at Gramercy Housing Courts, where on-site childcare helps me with my transportation, counseling and any additional support (if needed). Gramercy provides a safe and healthy environment that allows me to gradually transition into society as a stable mother and accomplish all of my goals and overcome any endeavors. If you ask me, I would not have it any other way!