Altagracia de Jesus was nominated for her kindness and patience by Paul Leonardo, the Director of UC Homefinding at Cayuga Centers. Paul says that Altagracia has been an amazing foster parent for the Unaccompanied Children program, and has proven to be a team player during these tough times. She has stepped up when foster parents are needed the most and didn’t express any doubts about receiving children into her home who other people might deem difficult to care for. 

For her big heart and her willingness to do the right thing, we want to celebrate Altagracia de Jesus and commemorate her for all the extra work she’s doing through this pandemic. Here is a letter she shared with us in hopes it will inspire other foster parents:  

Dear Fellow Foster Parents:

While it is true that right now isn’t the best time to have people from all over the world living under the same roof, my husband and I decided that in this difficult moment, we couldn’t possibly leave children in need without care. 

Because of the current situation, my older children are feeling a little bit depressed and anxious. Talking to them about why this is happening and how waiting might be for the best, has helped a lot. I’m also grateful that I have case managers and therapists to talk to them when things are tough. I’ve been driving to a different borough so I can find food from their native country, and as expected, food and cooking together has proven to be such a healing experience.

I’m talking about my own personal story with you because though I believe we’re all different and have different personalities, I’m hoping my own experience through these tough times will help you and inspire you in some way. 

Whenever I receive children in my home I make it a point to make them feel like they’re family. I treat them just like I will want my own daughter to be treated – we always celebrate birthdays with cake, photos and balloons so they’ll have something to share with bio parents once they’re reunited. There are always tears when they leave my home!

No matter what the situation is or the emotional state of the children that come into your home, I recommend practicing patience and compassion. Get to know your foster child and figure out what they’re missing, try to do whatever you can so they feel comfortable and your home becomes their home- after all, this is why we are foster parents, to make a child’s life a little bit easier. 

Thank you Altagracia for the extra work you’re doing in this difficult moment, and for giving your foster children a safe space to live and grow. Help us celebrate this Foster Hero by sharing your thoughts in the comments and telling us how Altagracia’s story applies to you and your children. 

And don’t forget to nominate your own Foster Hero here.