For years, I worked full-time while opening my home to foster children, determined to give them the stability and care they deserve. There’s a common misconception that foster parents receive plenty of money, but the reality is very different—especially when you’re committed to doing things the right way. When I was laid off in October due to a disability, I quickly realized just how little the county stipend covers, especially for teenagers who are often the hardest to place. Despite these challenges, I’ve always done my best to provide my girls with not just what they need, but also some of the things they want. For some, this is the first time they’ve had a stable, clean, and loving home.

This Christmas, I’m heartbroken that I can’t give them the holiday they deserve. My three foster daughters—teenage girls—aren’t asking for much. They’ve shown me simple things they’d love from Temu and Shein, and all they want are clothes, shoes, makeup, pajamas, lashes, and nails. They don’t care about name brands; they just want to feel special. They even told me, “Walmart is fine!” What matters most to them is the experience and the feeling of being cared for.

If you’re able to help, every dollar will go directly to making this Christmas memorable for my girls. I’ll use the funds to order their gifts right away so they arrive on time, treat them to their first nail salon visit, help one get her hair braided professionally, and create a wonderful Christmas dinner with stockings to open. Nothing will be spent on myself—this is all for my girls. Thank you for considering helping us make this holiday truly special.