Good News with Bad...

Okay, so it's official...the State of California will cut our rates by 10%. This means we will have to make major cuts to our own budget - a budget that isn't a thing of beauty right now! But continue we must, as Yoda would say.

So rather than gripe and moan about the negative news, I've decided to mention a few bright points of light at Parents by Choice:

• First of all, we have continued to find homes for kids in need. It's amazing to see the sacrifices made by our foster parents...opening their home at a moment's notice, and putting their own needs aside. I admit to being a braggart. I tend to brag first about my own children--the two boys who are the lights of my life. But my second source of pride are our foster parents. They have no idea how often I mention them to others.
• Next, Parents by Choice has been blessed with a donation of inventory and equipment from Sam Pollard, a friend of ours who is retiring from the t-shirt business. This means we will be able to make t-shirts, hats, and anything else you can imagine! We plan to use this gift to suppliment our income and (hopefully) teach our older youth a skill. Stay tuned for more on this subject...
• Finally, we've also been blessed by a gift from a family who wanted to help kids with school clothes this fall. We were able to identify three of our kids who had great need, and this family gave generously!

So things certainly aren't wonderful, as we care for vulnerable children. Each day starts with a prayer and as much faith as I can muster. But I choose to focus on the good news rather than the bad. Parents by Choice has the best foster parents anywhere, and we are fortunate enough to be able to make a difference every day. And plan to, for as long as possible.