Letter to the editor: Aug. 11, 2010

My name is Samantha Taylor. I am 24 years old.

At the age of 9, I was taken away from my biological parents along with my three little brothers, William being then 7, John-John, 5, and Roger, 3.

I was fortunate enough to be placed with a wonderful family right away— with parents who really put everything they had into their "job," making their foster children feel loved and appreciated like we were one of their own. To this day, I consider them my family. Thank you Bonnie!

My brothers, however, were not as fortunate right away.

They spent many years in a foster home where they were mistreated by their foster parents. They spent many years longing for the love of a family, as every child deserves.

Eventually they did find that, with the same family as my own, thankfully, finding the love and tolerance that they needed.

Foster parents in Shasta County are desperately needed.

There are children out there, as you are reading this right now, who are waiting, hoping, praying for a family to call their own.

Good, loving people who just want to help a lonely misguided child. Somebody to set rules and boundaries. Ask if they have finished their homework. Somebody who is there to help and explain if they need a hand on that last problem.

I think that foster care has an extreme impact on kids who do not have the structure that is needed at home. All that is needed are foster parents who really care and want to be a part of that impact.

I couldn't tell you where I would be right now if it were not for my foster family.

But what I can guarantee is that I would not be where I am today. I have a beautiful family. I am raising two amazing boys with a wonderful man. I've gone to school and graduated. And I have foster care to thank.

So, if you are, or you know somebody who is ready to change children's lives and help make a future for them, please, go in and become a foster parent.

There are so many children ready, waiting to be loved and taught, yearning to find who they are.

Sincerely,

Samantha Taylor,

Redding