When Cravens was simply 2 years previous, he and his younger siblings had been left in a motel room. Since then, he is had 19 placements within the foster care system.
“As I bought older and I continued to be in that place, it was type of tough. The actual fact of lacking out on sure household actions that the majority children get to have,” he mentioned.
However Cravens is tenacious. He stayed targeted, graduated from highschool and enrolled in courses at Houston Neighborhood School.
Although he remained targeted, he did not all the time have assist.
“Help is tough to seek out while you go to plenty of totally different locations,” he mentioned.
Little did Cravens know he’d have extra assist than he might think about. Mark Newcomer is a volunteer who helps teenagers transition from foster care out of the system
“They matched me with Shane and it was an ideal match. He is a terrific child,” mentioned Newcomer.
Newcomer mentioned there was one thing particular about him.
“He is straightforward to assist. He is appreciative,” mentioned Newcomer.
“It has been above and past with Mark. I wasn’t anticipating it to be this nice of an incredible friendship,” mentioned Cravens.
Not solely did Newcomer assist him transition into life outdoors of the foster care system, however he has additionally taught him drive. He is been there each step of the best way.
“It is every single day, ensuring I am OK, ensuring I’ve bought meals. It means so much. It is so wonderful to have somebody like that in my life,” mentioned Cravens.
After 19 placements, Cravens feels at dwelling. He has a brand new residence, however might actually use a automotive to get round. Newcomer began a GoFundMe to assist him get a automotive and different bills.
In spite of everything he is been by, Cranves mentioned he simply needs to pay it ahead. He is devoting his life to serving to others who may battle by tough occasions. He is learning psychology.
“My essential focus was, I wished to assist individuals within the scenario I am in or possibly worse,” he mentioned.
Cravens’ recommendation to others within the system: keep robust and be resourceful.
There are packages and sources on the market to assist. The truth is, there are federal pandemic aid funds obtainable to present and former foster youth.
The funds can be utilized to pay lease, tuition or telephone payments, amongst different issues. For individuals who are 21 and older, the appliance deadline is Sept. 30, 2021. Those that are 20 and youthful have a further 12 months to use, offering funds final.
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