From 2005 until today I have lived in 11 homes. 13 years, 11 homes. I was 18 years old when this list began. I am 31 years old today.
- 2383 **** Melbourne FL 32935- November 2017 to Present
- 1249 **** Melbourne FL 32935- November 2014 to Nov 2017
- 1805 **** Melbourne FL 32935- October 2012 to Oct 2014
- 1380 **** Palm Bay Fl 32907 – August 2010 to October 2012
- 8808 **** Ocala FL 34472 – October 2009 – July 2010
- SW **** Ocala Fl 34476 – October 2008- October 2009
- 14295 **** Dunnellon, FL 34432 – June 2008 – October 2008
- 2901 **** #1600 apt 1508, Ocala, FL 34474 – June 2007- Jun 2008
- 1601 **** Apt 2607, Ocala, FL 34471 – July 2006- June 2007
- 1994 **** Ocala, FL 34474 – July 2005- July 2006
- 9 **** Amenia, NY 12501- January 2003-July 2005
So why does this matter? My children had at least 20 placements- each- before they came to us at 11. This number is not including their biological home, any homes they were placed in during previous removals or moves within their group homes and residential treatments centers.
There is no calculation for how many different parents a child has over their time in dependency care or what this will mean for them in their lives. I am a firm believer that a child needs a loving home and family to grow and feel loved in their lives. When a child has so many homes, so many caregivers and no one that stays loving them it creates a disconnect which may never be able to be reconnected. These children still grow, but not always thrive. They get involved with so many negative things and to no fault of their own they have no idea why. Check out my post on ACES to read more about how these early childhood experiences effect them throughout their lives.
Wow. I have moved a lot since 18, but I can’t imagine moving through placements as a kid. Thank you for calling attention to it
Considering how much I hate moving, my heart breaks for the kiddos who are bounced around so much. I’m thankful for people like you who provide stable, loving homes. Thank you.
You’re right — early childhood is so important and bouncing around can be a huge challenge to a kid’s sense of safety and security. I know you’re doing all you can to foster a loving, supportive, stable environment for your kids.
This is so unbelievably heartbreaking. It’s such a tough little life those children live. They have to be come so tough and strong at such a young age. It’s such an amazing thing you’ve done. I hope to one day do the same. Thank you for sharing.