Unprotected: Aging Out Of Foster Care

Christina Abraham’s 21st birthday loomed with dread. The milestone meant she was aging out of the foster care system and needed to find her own place to live. Christina met with NBC News’ Antonia Hylton in the months surrounding that deadline, sharing her experience in a group home and the obstacles to securing housing in New York City.
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#NightlyFilms #FosterCare #Adoption

Пікірлер: 434

  • @The_Quili
    @The_Quili Жыл бұрын

    I aged out of foster care. My parents simply didn't want me as an adolescent. I had no support system after and had dealt with homelessness on and off since. Kids need support and someone that cares!

  • @celenajones6352

    @celenajones6352

    Жыл бұрын

    I'm so sorry that you had to go through that. Hopefully things have gotten better for you now.

  • @beyourself2444

    @beyourself2444

    6 ай бұрын

    How can your parents simply not want you, were you misbehaving and they couldn't control you? Children have a right to support but children have a right to do the right thing, be trainable and obedient.

  • @phexi419

    @phexi419

    5 ай бұрын

    @@beyourself2444What a sick and disgusting comment

  • @nunyadambusiness3530

    @nunyadambusiness3530

    2 ай бұрын

    @@beyourself2444 Children do not have the conscious ability as an adult. If you can't handle an "out of control" kid, then you don't deserve kids.

  • @Victoria-nx6rr

    @Victoria-nx6rr

    21 күн бұрын

    We as a country have failed all foster children. Wow, you are dealing with issues that many adults are unable to navigate . Can't wait to see what you become a lawyer, à Doctor, even à advocate for future foster care kids, group homes, or any kid in need. You are the pioneering light! 😊😊😊😊😊

  • @bavery6957
    @bavery6957 Жыл бұрын

    This young woman is going to "make it", no matter what. Her strength runs deep...

  • @mariastevens6406

    @mariastevens6406

    7 ай бұрын

    You'd be surprised. Sometimes things outside our control can do it

  • @hellobot67

    @hellobot67

    Ай бұрын

    That doesn't always happen. You can be strong and still suffer

  • @KC-gu6bi
    @KC-gu6bi Жыл бұрын

    So, kids raised in foster care face the same situation going out into the world as someone who has been incarcerated. How messed up is that? God bless the people at Hearts to Homes for helping young people get the helpful launch into the world that every kid deserves.

  • @CherylRyanRoberts

    @CherylRyanRoberts

    Ай бұрын

    Well that's an odd comparison.. I can see where you're coming from. Kid's forcefully or deceitfully removed from their homes over medicated told they have a new mom and dad foster mom foster dad and when they fight their ideology are further medicated. Because the kids must have a mental problem If they want their bio aka real parents.. I can accept your point of view probably in like 80 percent of Foster care kidnappings.

  • @BorahaeBitch7
    @BorahaeBitch7 Жыл бұрын

    During college, I worked at a transitional group home for older kids getting ready to age out. We guided them on things like applying for a license, for college, for a job, writing a resume, how to cook, how to budget, how to pay bills, etc. Just so thankful that we had the staff and resources to really see things through. The best part was running into some of them after they left the home and getting a hug and a thank you and hearing about all the good things going on in their lives. Some would have others believe that resources are scarce but it's truly not. If we could just prioritize the well-being of people first, above all else, no one would have to go without the basics...food, clothing, and shelter...and maybe even one person that cares.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    You’re so amazing! Thank you for helping people like me!

  • @vbrown6445

    @vbrown6445

    Жыл бұрын

    @@chrissya8296 Your story really touched me. Thank you for being so open to sharing. I'm wishing all the best for you- that you accomplish all your goals and continue to build your own chosen family made up of friends and people who love you because you are so wonderful.

  • @kigo641

    @kigo641

    Жыл бұрын

    Chrissy…you are beautiful and strong. I pray you’re doing well. Has anyone come forward to support you through this experience?

  • @economicdevelopmentplannin8715

    @economicdevelopmentplannin8715

    Жыл бұрын

    We're helping kids to get jobs and buy a house in cash with a spouse by 22. Especially excited whenever we get to help kids in foster care

  • @economicdevelopmentplannin8715

    @economicdevelopmentplannin8715

    Жыл бұрын

    @@chrissya8296 a bedroom bathroom suite in DC area on bus stops is under 150k renovated. Working 2 full-time minimum wage jobs will allow you to payoff this mortgage in under 3 years. Then dump the rest of your income into dividend paying stocks like Verizon. Pretty soon, your dividend income will exceed the cost of your groceries and property taxes and utilities yearly. If you want help getting a couple jobs in DC area, please let me know

  • @Hey-Ro
    @Hey-Ro Жыл бұрын

    I understand her. I was in foster care from 6 - 18, 5 different homes/schools. One thing I know, having the right parents and listening to them changed the direction of my life.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    That is so amazing. It’s always great seeing fellow foster kids have positive experiences ❤

  • @lacebird76
    @lacebird76 Жыл бұрын

    I can completly have these same feelings. Maybe we should connect single women, mid-60s, struggling to get by and all alone with a young vibrant “aging out” young person ! It brings Oxygen and Sunshine into our lonely lives! It will keep us feeling young and connected and caring for a young person who needs all the tlc we still have to give

  • @jennifergraceh

    @jennifergraceh

    Жыл бұрын

    I love that idea!!!

  • @YellinUpAStorm

    @YellinUpAStorm

    Жыл бұрын

    That would be nice to meet occasionally and take the kid out for a meal or cover groceries. Sharing a living space? Twenties and sixties are two very different phases of life.

  • @uggycyvhvyvyv7322

    @uggycyvhvyvyv7322

    Жыл бұрын

    I doubt old people would want to live with somebody

  • @darla218

    @darla218

    Жыл бұрын

    @@uggycyvhvyvyv7322 People in the US lack compassion for their elders. They’re lonely. Family doesn’t visit. It’s sad.

  • @DouradaBambina

    @DouradaBambina

    11 ай бұрын

    This is USA 🇺🇸 the land of no community

  • @FeliciaFollum
    @FeliciaFollum Жыл бұрын

    As a foster parent this is so disheartening. We tried so hard with all of the kids.

  • @bloodlove93

    @bloodlove93

    Ай бұрын

    maybe you did, but it seems many dont,and honestly, depending what your best is,it might be one of the things that child hates most and makes them wish they were dead, so really your best can mean nothing,something, and everything, one for 3 different people yet all for the same reason.,maybe it's clothing, schooling, religion, politics, privacy etc etc, no matter how great you think it is,it's some bodies worst nightmare you provide,and most will never feel safe being honest about it,because one word from you destroys everything.

  • @marih3286
    @marih3286 Жыл бұрын

    It's sad that there isn't an agency that works one-on-one with these young adults. I was a foster child in the 1970's. I had an absent Social Worker. Finally as an adult she came through my check out line at the store I worked at drunk, so Security called her husband. He explained she was indeed an alcoholic. The system is BROKEN all the way around.

  • @drawingstyle6327

    @drawingstyle6327

    Жыл бұрын

    Sorry to hear you had such a bad experience. Right now I am volunteering with Dallas CASA. CASA volunteers visit the children in foster care and act as their advocate in the courtroom. I have defiantly seen a lot of Social Worker get burnt out or move on to other things. And I feel the CASA program helps make things a little less broken. I would love any advise you have for me to make sure the child I am advocating for gets their voice heard. I know as an adult you can often look back at your childhood and see things you did not see as when you were younger. I would love to make sure all their needs are met both mental and physical.

  • @BettyWilchek

    @BettyWilchek

    11 ай бұрын

    I was in Foster care in the 1950's. The system was broken then and it remains Broken Today. As you said in the 1970's your Social Worker was absent, I'm not surprised, because they would make a brief appearance maybe once a year to speak with only 1 or both foster parents. They never made the time to speak with the foster child one-on-one even at an early age just to see if things were okay or if there were any problems at the foster home. So as you said it is sad, that there is NO Agency that works one-on-one with these Young Adults. You are 100% correct, the System is BROKEN.

  • @jweeks9656

    @jweeks9656

    11 ай бұрын

    DO BACKGROUND CHECKS ON THE FAMILIES WHERE THE KIDS GO, AND CHECK ON CHILD AND FAMILY ON A REGULAR BASIS

  • @Mr-id4os
    @Mr-id4os Жыл бұрын

    I have no siblings or children, 'unqualified' to adopt yet I fostered teen moms with babies for many years. Now, as a retired senior, I wish I could still adopt a young adult who wants and needs parental support. I've had girls like Christina - and worse. But, this definitely DOES NOT have to happen to kids who spend the majority of their lives as a ward of the court. The whole system makes me sad and angry at the same time.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    The want to help is half the battle! I’m sure you’ll be able to support in a way that will leave you feeling fulfilled!❤

  • @ddigiorgio8438

    @ddigiorgio8438

    2 ай бұрын

    Why are you "unqualified to adopt"? Perhaps you can be foster parent or mentor to an older teen or a young parent.

  • @therealbusinessblonde
    @therealbusinessblonde Жыл бұрын

    Beautiful spirit and smile ❤ I wish her all the best. Her story is so important and we need reform of the foster care system

  • @crouchingchickenhiddenegg

    @crouchingchickenhiddenegg

    Жыл бұрын

    It is not about reforming but foster care awareness. Getting more families to open their home to fostering children. Maybe the government could make it more appealing so as to encourage more families.

  • @jweeks9656

    @jweeks9656

    11 ай бұрын

    No. Its background checks on the bum families!

  • @RD-ue9wb
    @RD-ue9wb Жыл бұрын

    She seems so collected. My guess is she "seems" that way, because that's the only way for her to get thru life. There has to be times of fear, whether or not things will be okay at some point, at any point. I wish I could hug her, and look her in the eye and let her know she does matter. There is something to be said for her strength. She is mature for her age. It's certain that's because she's had to be.

  • @aliveprosperous3411

    @aliveprosperous3411

    2 ай бұрын

    RAD

  • @happygrandma4ruthP
    @happygrandma4ruthP Жыл бұрын

    I worked in a group home and was let go because I reported the mistreatment of the children.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    That’s so unfortunate. Thank you for trying to do the right thing.

  • @AshleyLegare

    @AshleyLegare

    Жыл бұрын

    You did the right thing..God bless you Angel❤

  • @nataliagarcia5067
    @nataliagarcia50672 ай бұрын

    I’m so happy that she finally has a home to go to, she is blessed.

  • @mam564
    @mam564 Жыл бұрын

    What a beautiful young lady! I hope she has a brighter future!

  • @lmoree00
    @lmoree00 Жыл бұрын

    I really feel like this beautiful intelligent young lady will be successful. She's strong, she doesn't give up, she has personality. She's gonna be fine, and I hope she'll be fine very soon!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Will people like you believing in me how could I fail! Thank you so much for your kind words in my darkest days I think about all the words of light ❤

  • @lmoree00

    @lmoree00

    Жыл бұрын

    @@chrissya8296 You are very welcome dear. Be careful out here and continue to be strong and reach your goals 💚💚💚

  • @justmejenny7986
    @justmejenny7986 Жыл бұрын

    Chrissy, I am so happy to see you with your own place. That has to be a huge relief. Your story touched my heart. I was a foster mother for many years until I adopted a sibling group of three. I hope all the children I fostered know that I truly cared for each of them. I hope someday you start a family of your own. Maybe be a foster parent yourself. You have turned into an intelligent, beautiful woman and you deserve love and stability in your life. God bless you and keep you safe.

  • @justmejenny7986

    @justmejenny7986

    Жыл бұрын

    I also wanted to make you aware of charities that provide new beds for people who don't have one. I'm not in your area but Google should help you out in your area. Make sure to apply for HEAP, SNAP (food stamps) and free phone, discounted Wi-Fi and utilize food pantries. Hope this helps. ☺

  • @missjenn170
    @missjenn170 Жыл бұрын

    What a heart touching story. I wish they posted her amazon wish list or how we can help support her.

  • @fionassimbwa8805
    @fionassimbwa8805 Жыл бұрын

    Please keep updating us about her..are praying for her

  • @irenesorina3934
    @irenesorina3934 Жыл бұрын

    This foster kids should not be treated like criminals. Alarmed should only place at the door and only on after curfew hours.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you !

  • @tashajourneys
    @tashajourneys Жыл бұрын

    Such an emotional story. I wish her all the best. Her tenacity and spirit makes me excited about her future now that her basic needs are starting to bed met.

  • @thackett7165
    @thackett7165 Жыл бұрын

    Christina is absolutely beautiful inside and out. She has something great to offer this world. She is a diamond. She is just getting started. Sidenote: shame on the US government for failing our youth in every way imaginable (education/foster care/healthcare). Meanwhile, billions in tax money sent to Ukraine.

  • @queenfba003
    @queenfba003 Жыл бұрын

    My foster mother prepared me for age out. Got an apartment at 16 years old. State assisted me until I became 21.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    That is so beautiful❤

  • @princessequestrian10

    @princessequestrian10

    5 ай бұрын

    good deal for you, free money must be awesome

  • @kennyroberson6216

    @kennyroberson6216

    2 ай бұрын

    ​@@princessequestrian10 That was a stupid comment

  • @SarahTerror.0

    @SarahTerror.0

    Ай бұрын

    ​@@princessequestrian10yes, good for her. That's where state money should be going, to help young people get their lives going. They are the future

  • @princessequestrian10

    @princessequestrian10

    Ай бұрын

    @@SarahTerror.0 and what about all the young people who got their lives going on their own, without free handouts? surely the deserve compensation as well, as they've proven they don't need to rely on someone else. why are deadbeats like this girl getting all the money when actual hardworking people get nothing? it just incentivizes uselessness.

  • @RitaBaker56
    @RitaBaker5611 ай бұрын

    Christina Abraham's story is powerful and needs to go viral. What an amazing, intelligent, and resilient young woman she is. So happy she stayed the course and is now on her way to fulfilling her God-given destiny! You go girl, you got this!

  • @crystalmasters8582
    @crystalmasters8582 Жыл бұрын

    I know it’s scary but you can do this!! On my own since 16. Get out of the city to more affordable housing areas. Much Love ❤️ Enjoy the ride

  • @bluebonbon22
    @bluebonbon22 Жыл бұрын

    When I was told as a teen that once I was out out of the juvenile detention I would have to go to a group home to live, I ran away at 18. This was in the 1960's when the age of adulthood was 21. I left Minnesota and never looked back. It was difficult and many problems were still in my future. BUT I'm now 75, I've got adult children, adult grandchildren and I'm very happy to have 10 great-grandchildren. I was in foster care starting as an infant, adopted, then again in foster care, unadopted, and a runaway. But I am still alive!

  • @Verde212
    @Verde212 Жыл бұрын

    This Beautiful Young Woman will Do very, very well in her future. Her Essence/Spirit is so Positively Unique and Strong. I will keep her in my thoughts and pray she has a lifetime of Divine Protection. I absolutely love her positive attitude in spite of hardship. I see her as a role model as well and sent this story yo my 14 year old granddaughter to watch.

  • @kristannestone1748
    @kristannestone1748 Жыл бұрын

    I have ended up with no bio family. Sometimes it is better, actually. We can find our REAL family. Our soul family. Financially it's so scary nowadays, especially as a woman, but truly WE CAN do it, and you will be so proud of yourself. Much, much love and sympathy going out to you, beautiful person...

  • @thegreatestlovethegreatest273
    @thegreatestlovethegreatest273 Жыл бұрын

    Keep doing stories like this!!! Please. This is what we want to see. Stories about real Americans living real lives. Thank you NBC!🎉

  • @jrbland18
    @jrbland18 Жыл бұрын

    For the girl who has been in the Foster care and living in the central, keep your head up. I hope you are able to find a place to live. Sending you prayers.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much ❤ I got my apartment!

  • @vsmith113

    @vsmith113

    11 ай бұрын

    ⁠@@chrissya8296How are you? I’m so proud of you. You are beautiful.

  • @lickourballs1atatimeok
    @lickourballs1atatimeok Жыл бұрын

    She has a SPIRIT OF GOOD

  • @bennettcawley4630
    @bennettcawley4630 Жыл бұрын

    Virtual housewarming warms my heart.

  • @latreasemurray8125
    @latreasemurray8125 Жыл бұрын

    Praying for this young lady and all others in this situation!!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you ❤

  • @tassued.1879

    @tassued.1879

    Жыл бұрын

    Amen!

  • @ragdollb9667

    @ragdollb9667

    Жыл бұрын

    @@chrissya8296 Praying for you too Chrissy♥️ I asked God to send his Angels & a Hedge of protection around you! Put God first in all you do and he will see you through. 🙏🏻🌻

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    @@ragdollb9667 wow thanks so much

  • @gwendolynmack1668
    @gwendolynmack1668 Жыл бұрын

    I can identify it was worse here in Florida, we had to be out at 18, not knowing where you was suppose to go or who could help. Lost soul.

  • @sherrylovegood

    @sherrylovegood

    Жыл бұрын

    That would be the same in my country. The thought terrifies me for young people.

  • @sheaholland9704

    @sheaholland9704

    Жыл бұрын

    I’m gonna foster tons of kids in Florida🫶🏽

  • @yvonneplant9434
    @yvonneplant9434 Жыл бұрын

    There are thousands of kids just like her.

  • @thegreatestlovethegreatest273
    @thegreatestlovethegreatest273 Жыл бұрын

    I’m halfway through the video and I love this young lady. I know all about the foster care system from deep, long, personal experience. You will make it young lady. I wish you could come live with me 😢. She is strong and will be successful in life and happy, Amen.

  • @milayd3291
    @milayd3291 Жыл бұрын

    I can feel her strength. God bless her and keep her.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much ❤ you’re the best

  • @TheRealDadofLosAngeles
    @TheRealDadofLosAngeles Жыл бұрын

    This is one of the most heartbreaking thing every. As a foster parent my heart just breaks.

  • @johnnyfreedom3437

    @johnnyfreedom3437

    Жыл бұрын

    Unfortunately you can't save them all

  • @missjenn170

    @missjenn170

    Жыл бұрын

    @@johnnyfreedom3437 That a very heartbreaking and cold perspective. Theses young people don't need saving, they need a support system.

  • @celestejacobs7386

    @celestejacobs7386

    Жыл бұрын

    I wonder where all the "pro lifers" are? You know, the people who actively try to make sure kids are born into situations where they are not loved or wanted. Weird how they fight for embryos and fertilized eggs, but are never around when ACTUAL people need help.

  • @sheaholland9704

    @sheaholland9704

    Жыл бұрын

    Right I’m 24 and I’m about to start my foster parent classes , this video made me cry imagining how holidays are for them

  • @MsJanetWood
    @MsJanetWood11 ай бұрын

    If you go to your local laundromat and look at the announcements on the bulletin board, amongst all the landscaping and massage therapy ads, there usually ROOM FOR RENT ads. There are always a couple of cheap rooms available. Good Luck.

  • @JaneDoe-ql7sc
    @JaneDoe-ql7sc7 ай бұрын

    Christina is such an intelligent & beautiful young woman! I encourage her to enroll in junior college, toward transferring to a university after completing the basic college courses. There are grants she can apply for at the schools' financial aid department, & she can also apply for student loans. Moreover, there are scholarships available that she can learn more about on-line, even a "first in the family to go to college" scholarship - the financial aid department can help her receive info about scholarships as well. Blessing to her. Hope you'll do a follow-up on her, because she does matter, & that was the one thing that broke this viewer's heart, how she had to grow up in foster homes where she was made to feel like she didn't matter

  • @Goals996

    @Goals996

    5 ай бұрын

    I agree but the government is supposed to give her money to pay for school since she was in foster care did anyone explain this to her???

  • @nyieshahopkins6700
    @nyieshahopkins6700 Жыл бұрын

    Your an exceptional and very articulate young women. You have great energy and that great energy will follow you. Keep pushing for your beginning never has to be your end. I hope you make a family one day and pour into them all that was not poured into you. 🎉

  • @deec3561
    @deec35612 ай бұрын

    She is going to do great things. I can feel it. God bless this baby girl

  • @caroleastmond9064
    @caroleastmond9064 Жыл бұрын

    The state should do more to help these kids coming out their system. Good reporting, she is a wonderful young lady, all the best to her!!❤️🎉🎉🎉

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    They should and they will! Thank you so much !!

  • @jhoigaar
    @jhoigaar Жыл бұрын

    In Southern California we have some programs in community colleges which give scholarships to people who have aged out of foster care.

  • @catherinewilson1079
    @catherinewilson1079 Жыл бұрын

    I love you Christina! I am so sorry you have been treated this way. In Canada the cut off age for foster children is 18!! Disgusting! I pray that you are able to overcome your problems🙏🏾

  • @brandyjohn
    @brandyjohn Жыл бұрын

    This absolutely breaks my heart, but I'll be in prayer for her. She's such a beautiful young lady, and she's so strong. 💧🕊🌹

  • @Gachilyn
    @Gachilyn2 ай бұрын

    Breaks my heart all that she said... no kid should grow up feeling that way💔 I wish I could foster someday,I have so much love to give l😭

  • @patiencet3103
    @patiencet3103Ай бұрын

    Proud of this young lady and her accomplishments and being able to keep a tenacious attitude towards life. Many blessings to her and her future.

  • @LtheGoddess7
    @LtheGoddess7 Жыл бұрын

    Such a beautiful piece. Thank you for doing right by her story.

  • @nicolegordon129
    @nicolegordon129 Жыл бұрын

    This is so crazy. I’m glad that she finally got what she needed.

  • @abcd.777
    @abcd.777 Жыл бұрын

    I hope the reporter, stay in contact with her, not daily but at least twice a month. I know they are not suppose to be emotionally involved but just make sure she stay focused. Don't just let this be a story. I hate that there's not that much help, but I am glad the young lady is off on a good start

  • @cornyconnie.
    @cornyconnie. Жыл бұрын

    God bless her, and all those who helped her, and all those who are going thru what she has and is!

  • @nova9galacticme421
    @nova9galacticme42114 күн бұрын

    I was abused in foster care and am still seeking healing. So sorry for anyone who had to be a foster child.

  • @bennettcawley4630
    @bennettcawley4630 Жыл бұрын

    Stay safe, my lady. Your strength is our strength. Live long and prosper.

  • @NeicyJ1990
    @NeicyJ1990 Жыл бұрын

    Christina is a very wise young lady. I'm wishing her the best on this journey called life.

  • @krisrodrigues1
    @krisrodrigues1 Жыл бұрын

    Good job Christina! Apartment is adorable. You seem so well adjusted for what you have been through. Great attitude you are going to make it!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so muchhh! I try🥹

  • @lystraallicock695
    @lystraallicock6959 ай бұрын

    She's a fighter and a survivor. God continue to bless that indomitable spirit ❤🎉😊.

  • @lindafrazier9367
    @lindafrazier9367 Жыл бұрын

    I was so touched by your life. I would be blessed to have you as a daughter. 😇🙏🏾💕

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Awww thank you 🥹 I feel blessed for the consideration!

  • @realitycheck6
    @realitycheck6 Жыл бұрын

    So sad, yet she is amazing to me! Such perseverance! And that beautiful smile and strong spirit in the face of so much adversity! Gratitude also to the people who helped her. I would love to hear how things are going for her! I pray that she is a tremendous success story!!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I am doing so much better! Thank you for your words and believing in me and seeing me and not what I’ve been though. It means more than you know ❤

  • @realitycheck6

    @realitycheck6

    Жыл бұрын

    What a thrill to my day to hear from you directly! Thank you so much for that! I continue to hope that you are making a remarkable difference in the world!! I pray that you are mightily blessed by God!! Yay, you!!❤

  • @lisawynne-magnuson9469
    @lisawynne-magnuson94697 ай бұрын

    No one would know if I didn't tell them but I too have experienced foster homes. I recently celebrated my 49th birthday and more and more, I feel compelled to work with folks like Christina. She is me and I am her. My biological mother was a severe alcoholic and due to that along with issues with my biological father, I became a ward of the state. I was emancipated at 18 years old but thank God I started collage right away. Long story short, I was able to graduate from college and make good for myself. I am married with no children however, my dream is to one day be called mom. I know it will happen. Another dream I have is to establish a nonprofit program whereby individuals who have been through the system and have made it; could share their stories to shame the devel and most importantly encourage and motivate those who may be in the system. No matter what, this desire to serve in some capacity for young folks like Christina has consumed me and I know that it is not too late. Her story touched me and I saw a fire in her eyes. She will become very successful and one day look back and tell her story to inspire other young people.

  • @TheINFJChannel
    @TheINFJChannel Жыл бұрын

    Life is hard. Smile and greet a stranger today ♥️

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I surely will and these words put a smile on my face today!

  • @lifebeyondthering
    @lifebeyondthering Жыл бұрын

    Wow, such an Amazing Young women. I wish her the Best!❤

  • @hhustlehumble1
    @hhustlehumble13 ай бұрын

    “Outside of my room, crazy things happen” - these kids need to learn to trust the outside world. You don’t need to hold your head high or put a smile on your face, you just need to go out there and trust the process - you are worthy of what everyone else is trying to accomplish. You can do it.

  • @sabrina.natalie
    @sabrina.natalie2 ай бұрын

    Christina, if you happen to read this, please know that I am so proud of you babe! You did it. I can’t even fathom the amount of trauma, adversity, and pain you have endured throughout your life, but you’re here - you’re alive - with a wonderful head on your shoulders. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for you. I know you’re going to accomplish amazing things, beautiful! ✨

  • @barbram8001
    @barbram8001 Жыл бұрын

    This young lady is articulate, and intelligent. She's going to make it. Lord Father God, thank You for sustaining this young lady. You have been protecting her, her whole life. She didn't get this far by luck, but by Your great mercy, grace, and love. Thank you Lord Jesus Christ, in and through Your Name, Amen!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for your words of light over me. You are amazing ❤

  • @lifewithPam
    @lifewithPam Жыл бұрын

    God bless this young lady.

  • @Eyemredeemed
    @EyemredeemedАй бұрын

    Thank you for showing this. It’s real and more people need to be aware of the need our children and young people have.

  • @HellaKittyGoneBad
    @HellaKittyGoneBad11 ай бұрын

    This is such an important episode, and very well-done. Thank you so much.

  • @tarajoyce3598
    @tarajoyce3598 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for shining a light on this important issue!

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for listening to my story ❤

  • @Makeusqueak
    @Makeusqueak Жыл бұрын

    This is heartbreaking. God bless this beautiful young lady. I hope she has the strength to endure and find a peaceful, happy path.

  • @KaramiaMia
    @KaramiaMia Жыл бұрын

    Congratulations, Christina .

  • @purplebutrfly30
    @purplebutrfly306 ай бұрын

    Aww hugs 🫂 I totally understand I was a foster kid too. I care about you. Much love ❤

  • @desireebryant9523
    @desireebryant952310 ай бұрын

    Congratulations I’m glad you have your own place 🙏🏽❤️

  • @dreamjohnson7818
    @dreamjohnson7818 Жыл бұрын

    BECAUSE IT’S A BUSINESS!!! THEY PROFIT FROM IT!!!

  • @Rckstrroma5
    @Rckstrroma5 Жыл бұрын

    I’m sooo proud of her Must’ve been very difficult

  • @anikapaldi7161
    @anikapaldi7161 Жыл бұрын

    Oh beautiful soul…all the best to you.❤

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you lovely I appreciate it so much !

  • @fmstori
    @fmstori3 ай бұрын

    Sadly so true I was in care for 17 years and can recall maybe having 4 good homes and a respite care provider. Sadly most do it just to add to house funds but I thank God for the few I had that really cared now I'm an author, podcaster, college advisor and rising business owner God can and does heal all wounds

  • @hershebeauty622
    @hershebeauty622Ай бұрын

    They should be doing better to help them finding affordable apartments and they SHOULD be top priorities! PERIOD! I'm blessed my experience wasn't this trying but it gets under my skin to see these children go through this.

  • @Sunflower_1818
    @Sunflower_1818 Жыл бұрын

    God bless her. I pray everything goes well. Hopefully, they will do a follow-up story in a year.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    God willing we will! Thank you !

  • @m.s.3798
    @m.s.3798 Жыл бұрын

    How wonderful for her

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    ❤❤❤

  • @AnnmMarie
    @AnnmMarie Жыл бұрын

    This is exactly why I quit child welfare. I was tired of telling young adults that they were about to be homeless and the agency I worked for didn’t care! Smh it’s heartbreaking

  • @BettyWilchek

    @BettyWilchek

    11 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much for Sharing. I applaud your Caring Nature and Honesty in that the system remains Broken 💔& Heartless. Your one in a Billion.❤

  • @jennifertai805
    @jennifertai8052 күн бұрын

    I was a former foster youth. It's been a struggle always being in survival mode constantly struggling with basic needs with no safety net to fall back on.

  • @eagledice2008
    @eagledice2008 Жыл бұрын

    This is heartbreaking hope she can live a good life now

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I’m definitely on the path to it lol !

  • @daneblack2593
    @daneblack259327 күн бұрын

    She seems like a really good person I hope everything worked out for her seems like she just wants a chance

  • @pamelamays4186
    @pamelamays418610 ай бұрын

    Working as a guard at my local foster care office I saw a foster parent just drop their foster care child off, with all that child's belongings. That parent was like, "I can't do this." That poor child was no more than ten years old

  • @angeledwards1626

    @angeledwards1626

    10 ай бұрын

    Ten year olds can be monsters and murders too. there kids who are so hurt that they will hurt everyone else around them, should a foster parent be abused now? I have been working with the hardest kids for over 22 years. I was also in foster care in some crazy group homes. KIDS can HURT YOU TOO! There is no ONE ANSWER other than to tell people that EVERYTHING THAT HAPPENS TO YOU IS KARMA and KARMA can transfer over from your past lives. Deal with your karma and learn your lessons then help others with that knowledge to turn it into wisdom and ONLY then will your KARMA change. sometimes people didi people so dirty in a past life that they are born into suffering in THIS one. Thats whats SUP{POSED to happen so feeling sorry for yourself is pointless. others having sympathy or empathy for you is THEIR KARMA. Honestly, how do people NOT know this and STILL expect the EXTERNAL world to give you what you need. YOUR KARMA determines that so look within!

  • @ARKdeEREH
    @ARKdeEREH Жыл бұрын

    I get that she has never been anywhere but New York City and sees it as her home, but it seems like someone should suggest to Christina and to other people aging out of the foster system that they should live within their means and that trying to find an apartment in one of the most expensive cities in the country may not be the best place to start. She could find a considerably cheaper apartment in other parts of the country. That isn't to say that she couldn't move back to New York City later after she has earned more money and established a career but if she can't afford living in New York City now she should consider alternatives to homelessness. To put this in perspective, Honolulu (which has a reputation for being very expensive) costs about 1/3 as much in rent as the prices quoted in this video and also doesn't require spending money on heat. There are many parts of the country where the cost of rent would be negligible in comparison.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I see your perspective on this. Unfortunately I can’t help were I was born and raised. Also leaving the city would null all the benefits that I could receive after struggling for the majority of my life. Moving wouldn’t be the answer maybe a answer but not the answer. Thanks for your insight though!

  • @Luh_Retr0
    @Luh_Retr09 ай бұрын

    Thank you so much

  • @conscioussouthernsoul
    @conscioussouthernsoul10 ай бұрын

    Please, children, ask for a CASA advocate it will change your life.

  • @Queensheba74
    @Queensheba74 Жыл бұрын

    This is heartbreaking ! So sad....

  • @YOUAreTheSecretToLife
    @YOUAreTheSecretToLife Жыл бұрын

    She is welcome with me and mine anytime for as long as she wants. I love her already. If you want to come to Washington st, you have a place with me. I am so sorry you've never been treated as you deserve. Oh my heart ❤️

  • @mikeb8824
    @mikeb8824 Жыл бұрын

    This was a heartbreaking story for the ppls say at 16 get a job . But she barely tryna have a place to stay and where she does live is not permanent. As I watched this I question for a sec like do this do that but when u NEver had someone to guide u like a mom or dad or grandma or anyone u feel defeated . This girl just wanted a home she got a job . She just wanted a home and with the prices out their we all know 3k for rent ain’t easy

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for seeing a glimpse into my life. I appreciate you for your thoughtfulness!

  • @JWms12011

    @JWms12011

    Жыл бұрын

    @@chrissya8296 . . . . Is there any way that I can make contact with Christina to help?

  • @aa2210

    @aa2210

    Жыл бұрын

    How do we help her? Is there any contact info.

  • @luckbfern
    @luckbfern Жыл бұрын

    Amazing on the ground reporting

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Antonia and all of the nbc crew is amazing !!

  • @vanessak.allmon2894
    @vanessak.allmon2894 Жыл бұрын

    Through no fault of her own, she was dealt a bad hand and is off to a rough start...smh. If you don't want children, do not have them. They do not ask to be born. If you have them, take care of them ...they are your responsibility, no one else's.

  • @ISAE81657
    @ISAE816577 ай бұрын

    Eres super increible, sigue adelante!!!!

  • @optbuild4U
    @optbuild4U Жыл бұрын

    Blessings will continue to flow

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I sure Hope so!

  • @aprilla94
    @aprilla942 ай бұрын

    As a foster mum there is no way I could abandon my child. I signed up for life with my baby boy ❤

  • @lokipokey
    @lokipokey Жыл бұрын

    Wow. I'm from Iowa, and it's a hard nothing for foster kids who age out, at either 18 or the day they graduate from high school. I'm certainly not saying this was easy for her, but she was lucky to get the help she did.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    I am appreciative of all I’ve received because I know there are many with less. It can always be worse.

  • @dogsareme100

    @dogsareme100

    Жыл бұрын

    Depends on the state and frankly for people who are in homes ( like actual living with a family) the parents because even when the check stops at 18 or 21 if foster parents choose to of course they can still allow the person to stay.

  • @LocsofLove_Ree
    @LocsofLove_Ree2 ай бұрын

    This is the reason I am going through the process of becoming a Foster Parent....This breaks my heart. We have got to do better for these kids!

  • @sancraft1
    @sancraft1 Жыл бұрын

    This just breaks my heart. Your life matters. You can come here. I have two adult daughters and would love another. 🤗🥰

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Awww thank you so much I appreciate the kind gesture 🥹💕

  • @mijoy1431
    @mijoy1431 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much for sharing this story, this has propelled me to create my non profit organization that helps young adults who have aged out to be successful. I ask God to lead me in creating this organization.

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Yayy!! Do it and help as many as you can! This is a beautiful path you have started I commend you for it ❤

  • @raquelr8775
    @raquelr8775 Жыл бұрын

    Yes girl yes!!! How can we support a sister or even a brother?

  • @chrissya8296

    @chrissya8296

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank youuu!! There is an organization called Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and they are a group of volunteers that get assigned to youth my the judicial system and work closely with said youth and advocate for their needs. This is a great way to start getting involved. There are also nationwide!