LaBlonde Family

In 2016 we started our foster parent journey in Wisconsin. I can’t pinpoint an exact moment or reason why we decided to start our foster care journey but before we had completed our classes, we received our first call. Even with all the classes, we were not prepared for what was to come. I remember feeling so isolated because nobody truly understands your experience. I remember crying in the car because everything was so confusing, there was so much paperwork, I didn’t know what court dates I was expected to be at, I didn’t know why their insurance wasn’t working, I didn’t know how to apply for daycare assistance, and I didn’t know how to problem solve a small kiddos triggers. But we slowly figured it out and established a routine. 

Shortly after our placement reunified, we moved to Minnesota and relicensed. We slowly started to expand our community and support system, but it still felt isolating.

A few years later, Foster Together Minnesota was established and I was lucky enough to join the team. While we have not had a placement since Foster Together MN was created, I have been lucky enough to see the impact for foster families and children in care. 

Over the span of 6 years, we had 7 bonus kiddos that lived with us for a range of 6 months to 1 year. All of which include some really beautiful and really hard memories. Saying goodbye to children you love is the hardest thing I will ever do. I appreciate that I can still share these moments and memories with this group of individuals, with this shared lived experience, and receive nothing but support and understanding.

Please help us continue to support our community!