Make A Difference Blog Archives by Date Blog

Foster Friends: Backpack Drive 2016

Foster Friends: Backpack Drive 2016

During the summer months of June and July, we would like to see if you would consider being a part in our BACKPACK DRIVE!

It is our goal to provide backpacks full of supplies for as many of our foster families as possible by the beginning of the 2016-17 school year. 

If you are interested in taking part in this outreach, you are welcome to purchase your choice of backpack for donation. Listed below are the items requested to be placed in the backpack.

Read More
Each Hour Counts: A Biological Son’s Perspective as a Foster & Adoptive Brother

Each Hour Counts: A Biological Son’s Perspective as a Foster & Adoptive Brother

This is why my family chose to become a foster, and eventually adoptive family in Polk County, Florida. As a foster and adoptive brother, I have been allowed the opportunity to help shelter ten different children within our home over the past eight years. During this time I have been able to develop patience and empathy for those who have experienced great trauma. Since I was an only child for the first six years of my life, these experiences led me to share my space, toys, time, and even my family. With every child that was taken in, I felt it was my responsibility to make sure they didn't leave without knowing that there was someone who cared. I have helped prepare numerous meals, organize clothes, provide safety and fun at the park, entertainment at home and in the car, reading of books, bedtime prayers, and much more. Although some of my foster brothers and sisters stayed for only a short time, I believe that each day counts.

Read More

Without conditions or reservations, I wholeheartedly endorse Heartland for Children as the Community Based Organization (CBC) serving abused and neglected children in Highlands, Hardee and Polk Counties. The child welfare system has improved dramatically under the outstanding leadership of Heartland for Children. For nearly a decade, Heartland for Children has been delivering high-quality services to children and families in our communities. In fact, the system of care that was designed to protect child, our most precious resource, was not always responsive, nor highly respected, before Heartland for Children was selected as the first CBC, covering Highlands, Hardee and Polk counties.