My experience in foster care was very helpful. I started off in foster care at the age of eleven months when I was placed with one of the most wonderful foster parents. I stayed with her for approximately six years. When I was around seven or eight years old, I moved in with my Aunt who took care of me until I was about eleven years old.  From there I moved to another wonderful foster home when I was about twelve years old and stayed there until I was about fourteen years old.

After years of trying, my mom finally got custody of me. Unfortunately, I got into a little trouble and was sent to a group home for a year and put on probation. After the group home I went back to live with my mom.

When I was sixteen years old I got pregnant. At the same time my mom was sent to jail, so I had no caregiver. I was forced to move out of my home and stay from place to place. It was a difficult time in my life. At six months pregnant, I showed up for my annual review in court. The judge saw that I didn't have a guardian, and recommended me to the Florence Crittenton Center. Two days after I had my daughter Jayla, I moved into the Crittenton Center where I lived for one year.

In that one year, I accomplished a lot of goals. The Crittenton Center helped me to gain my GED, complete a Medical terminology class, as well as teaching me parenting skills. In that year I was also introduced to the ILP (Independent Living Program) where I attended class and got my certificate. The ILP helped me with all kinds of things. From getting a computer and going to computer camp, to receiving school supplies, clothing and books. They even paid my tuition.

Currently I am living in Gramercy Court and attending Los Angeles City College. ILP has helped me with all the books, and supplies I needed. I feel I am living and feeling good.