I am the youngest of 11 kids. My mom passed away when I was just six. I never had anyone teach me how to be a mother, but it always came naturally. I have looked after so many kids in my family nieces, nephews, cousins. I started working with children right after I graduated from high school. Babysitting always felt like something I was meant to do.
I had always hoped to become a foster mom. But I worried I would not qualify because I was single with no children of my own. One day, I finally decided to look into it. I learned that all you need is to be 21 or older you do not have to be married. That was the sign I needed. I moved into my own two-bedroom apartment and started the process.
In August 2016, I called St. Joseph Orphanage. They sent me everything I needed to begin the classes. The training lasted two months and was full of emotions. Some days were easy, others broke my heart. I cried hearing what some children go through. That is when I realized I wanted to help as many kids as possible.
When the classes ended, I had to choose the age and background of the kids I wanted to foster. I marked African American and Caucasian. Race did not matter to me love is love. I chose to care for kids around ages four or five. After my home study, I was approved to foster up to four children. It felt like a lot, but I knew I was ready.
In December 2016, I got a call about a five-day-old baby boy. I did not hesitate yes, he could come home with me. His name was Elijah Lee Hill. He was my very first placement.
Then, in May 2017, I was asked to take in two sisters. Only one, Alexis, arrived at first her sister Mercedes was in a group home. I made sure they stayed close, and eventually, in March 2018, Mercedes came to live with us too.
It was just me a single woman and now I have three children, ages 1 to 15. People stared. Some asked if I was just babysitting. I proudly said, “No, they are my children.”
We started the adoption process, and on November 1, 2019, our family officially became “Team Gentleman.” That day changed our lives forever.
Yes, i am a Black woman who adopted three white children. People talked. But love is love in our home. These kids are safe, happy, and deeply loved. And I would not want it to be any different.76hw If this is in your heart do it. You could change one life or even more
