Josiah, 18, recently graduated with his high school diploma and is working hard to build a strong foundation for himself.

Since becoming a resident of DePelchin’s Transitioning to Adulthood through Guidance and Support (TAGS) program 2 months ago, Josiah has since found the stability he needs to prepare for his future. The TAGS program supports youth who have been in the foster care system and are in extended foster care like Josiah, ages 18-22 who are either working, attending school or pursuing trade programs.

“Right now, I’m trying to get an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning) certification and after that I want to [get] my EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) [certification],” Josiah shares.

He also adds that his goal is to complete three certifications before he graduates from the TAGS program.

Josiah didn’t always have a stable foundation. After having to leave the care of his biological family, Josiah had a hard time finding a permanent foster home as he got older. Like many young adults with unstable living conditions, Josiah slept on friends’ couches before his caseworker introduced him to the services of DePelchin’s TAGS program.

“I wasn’t really sure what it [would] look like,” Josiah says of being a resident, “but a lot of people were telling me it’s a good place… And honestly, I’m happy to be here.”

Josiah appreciates the independence of the program and how he is learning to care for himself and his surroundings.

To supporters like you, Josiah says “this place actually helps. If you choose to support DePelchin just know it’s going in the right area.”

Jessica and Rene prioritize joy in their home. Often on Fridays, the couple shuts off the lights and throws a “glowstick party” for their 3 kids — Isabella, 6, Saumya, 5, and Ezio, 2.

All three of Jessica and Rene’s children have been diagnosed with autism and have diverse needs. Unfortunately, the family’s insurance doesn’t cover all the therapies the kids need. That’s where DePelchin has been able to step in and fill a gap.

Through DePelchin, the whole family now receives free mental health therapy services — excluding Ezio who is currently too young to participate in our therapy services at this time.

“It’s just been a blessing for my family,” says Jessica. “The program has put smiles on my kids’ faces and that is priceless.”

With help from her therapist, Isabella is learning how to vocalize her emotions and how to self-regulate, and her little sister, Saumya, is starting to express herself.

Jessica says she feels cared for as a person and a mom, especially when DePelchin has been able to go above and beyond for her family. A staff member once brought diapers and other items to their home.

“They…got me the help that I needed,” says Jessica. “It’s really touching that there are people out there that care…DePelchin has just been another extension of my family.”

“Thank you,” Jessica says to partners like you. “Every dollar is being put to use. It’s molding our future. Every little thing you can give, it gives our kids hope for a brighter day.”

“[Maribel] is the epitome of a success story,” Janine says. “She’s our little miracle.”

When Maribel, 2, was only 7 days old, she found safety, stability and love with Janine and Chris — who would eventually become her forever family.

“Literally, the night that we got her, I just absolutely fell in love with her,” says Janine.

Maribel’s birth mom is unhoused and has a mental health disorder, and she wanted to give Maribel the chance to grow up in a safe environment with loving adults.

“I know that [Maribel’s birth mom] was sick and I know that she loved her,” says Janine.

Maribel is now 2 years old and thriving. She’s smart and friendly, she would often rather hang out with friends and family than play with her toys.

“Everybody at daycare is just so madly in love with her,” Janine says proudly. “She’s just really sweet.”

To donors and supporters like you, Janine says, “every child deserves a chance.”

Janine and Chris are doing everything they can to help Maribel flourish.

“I have read every book, every medical journal, everything I can find on setting her up for success with a strong, calm nervous system,” Janine says.

We are so grateful for your support that helps ensure so many children just like Maribel have every opportunity to heal and thrive.