​The inspiration for this under taking began following foster care involvement and heartache. We saw the need to raise awareness of the growing number of children enteringthe system, as well as some of theirbackgrounds in how they came into thesystem and their experiences within foster care. Every county in Wisconsin was asked whether there was a child infoster care who would be interested in creating a drawing and sharing their story about their life in the system.

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STORIES OF HOPE AND RESILIENCE

As you read their stories, you'll encounter tales of success, heartbreak, and ongoing journeys. Yet, every child shares the same hope-to finding a good home, to be loved, and to know that someone genuinely cares for them. Each story reflects the turmoil, uncertainty, and challenges faced by the children, their birth families, and some foster or adoptive families. This is why the "Tumbling Block" was chosen as the quilt block for this project.

 

We hope you will take some time to look at the drawings and read their stories. As a society and as compassionate human beings, we have a responsibility to care for these children, and we must act sooner rather than later. The statistics regarding success within the system often seem at odds with the personal stories shared here. Please reach out to your State Senator, Representatives, the Governor, and local government officials to advocate for the necessary reforms and guidelines that can pave the way for genuine success stories. Each day, over half a million children in the United States are in foster care, seeking refuge from abuse. Countless children are longing for a loving and safe family to call their own.

 

Please consider opening your heart and home. If you or your organization are interested in borrowing the quilt along with its accompanying stories for a display, please reach out to: WFAPA Public Relations Chair Melinda Kasch, 8912 Sadler Drive Wind Lake, WI 53185 Phone: (262) 895-2652 Email: mkasch@wi.rr.com The quilt will be provided to you at no cost, and return postage will be included.​

 

For more information, contact your county adoption agencies, the Wisconsin Foster and Adoptive Parent Association, Inc. or the state adoption resource center.​