Monday, March 19, 2007

A foster care success story






Placer Kids honors single foster mom
Auburn Journal, March 17, 2007.




Jeanne Baine's family includes adopted daughter Barbara and the family dog Cookie.

Placer Kids is proud to present its "Family of the Month" for March, Jeanne Baine. Jeanne resides in Placer county and is a single woman who is committed to motherhood and made a decision to become a mom by adopting a child out of foster care.

Barbara is a wonderful 13-year-old girl who needed a permanent home. Jeanne recognized the opportunity to make a real difference in the life of another and took on the commitment of adopting a pre-teen girl and has not doubted her decision since.

"I had been considering the option of foster care and adoption for some time and decided to call Placer Kids which was the first step, it was a very good experience and the classes provided me with many valuable resources," said Jeanne.

Jeanne and Barbara have become a fun family who like to go shopping, do beading, and try other craft activities together. Since Barbara has moved into Jeanne's home Barbara has been getting to participate in fun "kid" activities and gaining in her self-confidence. Barbara is a delightful young lady and Jeanne has enjoyed adding Barbara to her family.

Placer Kids has children who need homes today. Families can choose to provide temporary care for children who will return to their birth families, long-term foster care or permanent homes either through adoption or guardianship.

Currently Placer Kids is seeking homes for approximately 50 children who deserve a safe and loving home.

"It's been a wonderful experience for the department and the courts to see the increase in permanent placements for children," said Honorable Colleen Nichols of the Superior Court. "The Placer Kids partnership has made all the difference."

For more information call the Placer Kids toll free number 888-387-9982 or call Debbie Lind at Placer County Children's System of Care at (530) 889-6718.

You are invited to attend the once a month orientation meeting held the third of every month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Placer Kids location at 11990 Heritage Oaks Plaza, Suite3, Auburn. Child care is provided, free of charge upon reservation. Please call Marilyn at (530) 886-2893 to reserve a space.