The Impact of Bridge the Gap in the Words of Children in Foster Care, Social Workers, and Foster Families
*Stock images are used for demonstrative purposes
CINDY HARDCASTLE
DCYF Area Administrator for Clark/Skamania Counties
"We have a 'medically fragile' toddler that suffers from a potentially life-threatening condition. We have already planned a vacation before we took placement of him, so he was going to be in respite for a full week and childcare for a few of the days while we were gone. Our doctor recommended that we purchase a medical alert bracelet for times when we are not right there with him. I looked into purchasing a medical alert bracelet so all of his caregivers could be informed of his medical issues while we were on vacation. The social worker suggested that Bridge the Gap was there to provide assistance for foster children. Within 24 hours, I was able to purchase an engraved medical alert bracelet with funds from Bridge the Gap. This helped the child to get the best-informed care while I was on vacation. I want to thank Bridge the Gap for standing in the gap for our precious foster children and for providing such a simple item that could potentially save his little life!!"
ROMAN
Child in Foster Care
"Thank you for helping me go to summer camp and gymnastics. I won first place at the Oregon State Games in the vault activity. Summer camp was fun. I got to see my friends and do lots of things."
SARA
Child in Foster Care
"Thank you for everything you've done for me." Sarah, who went to cheer camp thanks to Bridge the Gap.
BRANDON, AGE 16
Child in Foster Care
"I would like to address the issue of cutting funds for hobbies, camps, sports, or anything that you cover. I have used Bridge the Gap for payments to summer camps. It was a very fun and relaxing time and would like to go again. I realize that money may be tight, but the smile and happiness are priceless. Most kids out there do not get anything and would be truly blessed to have the chance to use this funding. As I write this letter, I speak for all foster kids. We need camps, hobbies, and other fun. It's a part of our lives in which we would not trade for anything. I appreciate the funding and ask that you would please take into consideration the childhoods and welfare of us children. For a lot of us, the things that this funding can buy is the only thing to look forward to. Thank you and please keep the funding going."
CURTIS
Child in Foster Care
"Thank you so much for your support. I enjoyed cross country. I'm looking forward to it next year."
LORA
Child in Foster Care
"Thanks so, so much! You guys are so sweet!" Lora, who went to cheer camp thanks to Bridge the Gap.
COLTON, AGE 13
Child in Foster Care
"If it were not for your selfless and giving foundation, I would not have gone to Jonah Ministries camp and there would be missing friendships and memories from my life. I enjoyed the camp very much and learned so many things there, although I learned these things at the camp you are just as credible for them as the camp is. I thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to go there. I would be even more grateful if you were to keep Bridge the Gap going so that I could have more opportunities like that. So I thank you and as you to keep Bridge the Gap going."
DESMOND, AGE 11
Child in Foster Care
"I would really like to keep Bridge the Gap because there is a lot of stuff that were able to do. For example, man camp really meant a lot to me and I really wish you wouldn't take it away because that would be a lot less things that we can do. Like spending money on my favorite hobbies like football and baseball and also Jiu-Jitsu. So I am asking you very nicely if you please don't take away Bridge the Gap. My name is Desmond and I am 11 years old and it would make me really happy if you would keep Bridge the Gap."
SHAREE
Mom of Foster Children
"You have made three young girls happy and excited to be able to participate in 'normal activities.' They have been having a great time doing their cheers and socializing with other children. Thank you so much!"
