I was ordered to leave home my second year of high school and to never return. I lived with my father for a while only to discover I was not wanted in his home either. I lived in several foster homes before coming to HAP.

At HAP, I learned to believe in myself and in my ability to be part of a family. HAP prepared me to live on my own and communicate and get along with people. I was married a number of years ago and am presently expecting a baby. I hope to give to other children and make a real positive difference in their lives the way HAP helped me.” Jenny S.

HAP Foster Care and Adoption Success
Peter came to HAP at age 13, having spent the previous 3 years in a number of residential placements that began when his adoptive parents divorced and neither wanted custody of him. Peter arrived at HAP with a history of fire-setting; in fact, he had severe burns on his legs and chest from accidentally setting fire to himself.

Initially at HAP, he was unable to get along with others, was failing in school, and had devastatingly low self-esteem. Peter’s history made him distrustful of adults and slow to form relationships. Gradually, with consistent teaching and a great deal of caring loving support at HAP, Peter began to learn to make friends, form attachments with others, and work through some of his anger and hurt from the past. After 3 years with HAP, Peter knew he was indeed wanted, and lovable. He left HAP for an adoptive placement and continues to do well.

HAP Foster Care Young Person
This poem was written by a 14-year-old girl after living at HAP for six months. Debbie came to HAP after being physically abused and having failed in nine previous placements. When she first came to HAP, she was overwhelmingly sad and negative. Now Debbie writes:

Share a smile
With those you meet
Share a laugh
That’s bound to keep.

Have the friends
Who love and care
Not by your looks
Or the clothes you wear.

Peace to those
Who are so kind
If you need a friend
Then here is mine.

From a Mom of a Child in HAP Care
“I wish to thank you and all of the counselors
who work for HAP for the absolutely wonderful
job you are doing in the guidance of my daughter
as well as in her care. I appreciate you very much
and the important work you are doing. I remember
all of you in my prayers every night, and may
God bless you for your kindness, love and
understanding. My daughter and whole family
are grateful for your assistance.”
Mrs. Elena R.

Cynthia, age 14, shares this poem:

“I sing the life I live, I sing the things I do
I sing of all I feel, my joy, my sorrows too
I laugh, I cry, I give
to others as I go
I sense, I feel, I hurt
These are the things I know”