Local Foster Parents Make Huge Impact on Nearly 40 Children
By: Patti Pietsch Weiske
Jerri Ann’s warm smile welcomed me as I walked into the cafe to meet with the local mom who has fostered nearly 40 children. Her adopted daughter, Aspen, looking wiser than her 10 years, was sitting with her. Our conversation started with her passionately talking about the urgent need for foster parents in our community. She is on a mission to inspire others to foster and adopt.
Jerri Ann and her husband John have been foster parents for 12 years and have adopted seven of the children ranging in age from 21 months to 11 years old. They are in the process of adopting two more siblings. “We try to keep the siblings together and have a sibling group of four and another group of three,” she says. They are fortunate to live on a small ranch where the kids are home-schooled. “Everybody gets up at the same time and we make our beds, do our chores, and help the little ones get dressed,” says Aspen proudly talking about her day. It’s a busy one too since they also have four horses, four dogs, three cats, three turkeys and 70 chickens to tend to. “I think having animals is imperative for the kids and riding horses is mandatory around here,” states Jerri Ann.
“Even though I can’t bring as many foster kids in to the house because of the seven that we have now, l will always have a crib in my room so I can foster infants.” Her look tells me that unfortunately this is more likely to happen than not. “There is such an immediate need for licensed foster parents.” according to Jerri Ann. She teaches foster and adoptive parent, relative, and non-primary parent classes for Washoe County Social Services.
“The need is extensive as many families like Jerri Ann go on to adopt children which results in the loss of homes.” adds Kristy Baker, Washoe County Foster Care Support Supervisor. “The Reno Rodeo Foundation is also key to aiding us in our mission to serve the children of Washoe County through the denim drive and distribution and other programs that give the children and the families the support they need to be successful.”
“I can’t say enough about the Reno Rodeo Foundation for helping the children of this community. This year’s Denim Drive was exceptional because of the rolling luggage bags. It’s always difficult especially for the older kids to move their clothes around in trash bags. This will make the children happy.” Jerri Ann says with an appreciate look.
“I feel this is what I was meant to do. Some people say they wish they had joined the Peace Corps. I always said I wish I could be a foster parent. And now I am one. I have so much more than I ever dreamed of,” Jerri Ann says looking down at Aspen.
100% of your donation is used to clothe kids rescued from unsafe homes.
Donate ONLINE via PayPal
Donate By MAIL
Reno Rodeo Foundation
59 Damonte Ranch Parkway, Ste B-441
Reno, NV 89521
