“He’s my baby. Like any parent, I take all the blessings and the challenges,” said Brenda.

“My son is connected to additional resources to improve his health and his quality of life,” said Tanara, who now has the help of a Medicaid Service Coordinator to navigate the complexity of Yvesa’s health care routine.

HeartShare St. Vincent’s Services opened a Reception Center on Staten Island for young men and women coming into foster care.

HeartShare St. Vincent’s Services opened a Reception Center on Staten Island for young men and women coming into foster care.

“Ms. Tia and Ms. Crystal helped me through difficult moments. There’s a lot to handle in high school and it’s not worth it to be mad,” explained Richard. “Besides, the good that you put into the world comes back to you.”

“Ms. Tia and Ms. Crystal helped me through difficult moments. There’s a lot to handle in high school and it’s not worth it to be mad,” explained Richard. “Besides, the good that you put into the world comes back to you.”

Luther started a new chapter in his life when he decided to get sober over 8 years ago. As an African American male, Luther said he was not accustomed to talking openly about things and doing so with the right people made all the difference.

“I want kids entering foster care to have an understanding of their rights within the system. We are strong,” said Dea, a Skidmore College sophomore who plans to major in Business and International Affairs.

Benita Miller signed a lifelong commitment to twenty-year old Jasmine through the HSVS Permanency Pact Program, which ensures that young people who have grown up in foster care do not have to navigate the challenges of young adulthood alone. “No matter what it is about, Jasmine knows that I’m there for her,” Benita said.

What’s the best part of being a part of the HSVS Beacon family for this long? “There’s always something to do here. It’s great!” she said.