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Miracles Are All Around Us

Hope for Families through Services

Nikki and Chris Spencer became foster parents about four and half years ago. Although they had no biological children, they were eager and felt prepared. Little did they know the extreme challenges they would soon face.

The Spencers welcomed a two-year-old boy and four-year-old girl into their home. The siblings had already lived in five foster care homes and several temporary shelters before coming into state custody. The pair had experienced trauma, including neglect and sexual abuse, in their short lives. These factors made adjusting to their new home exceptionally difficult.

“On the outside we looked like we were holding it together, but in reality we were scared, lost and feeling hopeless,” said Nikki. She added, “Some nights when I tucked my son into bed, he responded by trying to choke me. My daughter experienced the most horrific night terrors and clawed at me when I tried to comfort her.”

Nikki and Chris knew they needed help. She’d heard about PCHAS from a friend and contacted a Child & Family Specialist. It was a decision she wouldn’t regret.

“From my very first correspondence, I felt safe, seen, valued and never judged. The wrap-around support services PCHAS provided brought our family back to life. It was not an easy process, and it took time, but I’m forever grateful they came alongside us.”

While both children received therapy, the specialist worked with the adults on more effective parenting. Over time, Nikki and Chris learned “how to help our kids feel safe and how to respond to their behavior so we could start building the foundation of our family.”

PCHAS support of the family didn’t end there. When faced with adversity due to Chris’ job loss, the agency remained steadfast in its support of the family. “PCHAS stepped in and helped us to be able to get daycare assistance, helped get my children Christmas gifts and school supplies. I cannot put a price on those services or what it meant to have them available to us,” said Nikki.

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This year is the 120th anniversary of our founding, and we are celebrating the wondrous power of hope. As always, I’m proud to share stories gleaned from children and families who come to us in their darkest hour and volunteers who help PCHAS continue its mission of service.

In this issue you’ll meet Nikki and Chris, whose desire for a family brought them three children desperate for their love. The family utilized PCHAS’ services to provide the nurturing and care needed for abused and neglected children. There’s 20-year-old Asia, a young adult in search of direction. She found her way thanks to a PCHAS mentor helping her navigate the sometimes turbulent high school years and gain the courage to pursue college. Then, there’s the success story of a volunteer, Dustin. His path is sure to inspire!

I am reminded of a quote from our Board of Trustees during the Great Depression.

“The close of 1937 found us able to pay practically all bills except the superintendent’s salary…”

The Board of Trustees yearly report goes on to document six cases of scarlet fever, one case of diphtheria and 20 cases of measles, as well as dental examinations and fittings for “spectacles.”