New Hampshire Stories of the Heart
A Collection of Family Centered Foster Care Stories

There are many Stories of the Heart all around each and every one of us. If we open our hearts and listen, we will hear them. Kahlil Gibran, in his book, "The Prophet," has written a passage adaptable to foster parents as follows:
"You (parents) are the bows from which your children as living arrows are set forth.

The Archer sees the mark upon the path of the Infinite, and He bends you with His might that His arrows may go swift and far.

Let your bending in the Archer's hand be for gladness.

For even as He loves the Arrow that flies, so He loves also the bow that is stable."
Foster parents are "the bow that is stable" and it is to them that this collection is dedicated with sincere appreciation.

CONTENTS

These stories are all true, except where so indicated. Names have been changed to protect privacy.
Introduction 13. Alice's Story
1. Donna 14. Bud & Ella
2. Doug & Linda 15. Suzanne & Andy
3. Carol 16. Joanne & Jerry
4. The Grandfather's Story 17. Christine & Bob
5. Molly & Keith 18. Ben & Rachel
6. Impressions of a Social Worker 19. George & Fran
7. Memories of a Foster Parent 20. Jack & Reba, the Foster Home Licensing Worker's Story
8. David & Lori 21. One of the Girls
9. Dot & David 22. Mona's Story and the Friendship of Nellie & Tony O'Brien
10. Linda & Rich 23. Foster Parent Christmas Traditions
11. Jan & Bruce 24. Tracey's Story
12. Myra & Chet 25. Audrey & Dean
It is our hope that these stories will stand as a beacon, guiding future foster parents towards providing good quality Family-Centered Foster Care. Let them serve as shining examples of what good foster parenting is all about. As the reader begins to see beneath the surface, as these foster families were able to do, he will begin to understand and feel the pain and misfortune experienced by the foster children and their families.

We must always be aware that it is never too late to try. The foster parents, whose stories of the heart have been told here, rarely give up on anyone. The stories and segments provided by former foster children are a tribute to these foster parents and their ability to offer quality foster care. Families work when they are healthy and stable. When less fortunate families are encouraged and supported by those who have already achieved health and stability, they begin to work, too.
If you are interested in receiving a full copy of "Stories of the Heart," please email us, giving a mailing address, at the Foster Care Unit. Let us know what you think, we appreciate your comments!

How do I become a Foster Parent in New Hampshire?

For more information about NH Division for Children, Youth & Families programs visit the Family Centered Foster Care Unit Home Page.

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