I don't remember a lot as I think our minds block out trauma but being transferred into a group home in the middle of the night was a really scary experience. I have a strong memory of waking up being surrounded by kids wanting to know who I was and I felt extremely vulnerable 😢
I am a Household Supervisor at a school for kids with different disabilities. It is not nearly the same as a group home, but just listening to your stories made me realize how important it is when you work with children. I normally say that there is a story behind a kids behavior. It would be amazing if you could become a spokesperson for children in foster homes. ❤️
My heart hurts so much at the pain that is still in Hannah and Alex's eyes, I'm so grateful they found their family. Thank you for being such amazing understanding parents. Sending love from Wilsonville Oregon
I’m 28 and I live in a shelter due to my severe disability. I really wish I could be adopted. That’s always been my childhood dream as well as to adopt one day. Your videos are my reason to live.
I am 42 🤦 & still wish I was adopted by a good family then and now😂❤️.. Family is important, but sucks when you don't have that kind of support..! Sucks when our birth families & the system fails some of us...
Vanessa im so very sorry to hear your going thru this now my heart goes out to you. As living with severe medical issues myself I know how hard life is but to add a shelter in the picture im so sorry your going thru so much and you have no family support to be their for you thru this. No one deserves what your going thru.. Sometimes its hard to understand why were in a position were in and why God will allow this to happen to us however I've learned that God always has a plan for our life and he always uses our battles for a reason. he never waists a battle I pray that one day some family will adopt you and let you feel loved and apart of a family... I pray God will comfort you and help you thru this hard time.. I also pray for your mental state also pray that God will answer your prayers ... Your a beautiful and amazing person never forget that.... Keep your head up and stay strong... Send my love as a older sister and pray you love yourself... God bless you Vanessa 🙏 ❤
My mum fostered over 100 children in 40+ yrs until she retired 4yrs ago some children were short term but alot were long term love them all the same no matter how long they were with us ❤️ 💙
I was in a group home 31 years ago!! Here in Canada Ontario things are drastically different then the US!! The staff was great and I made quite a few friends. Mine was co-ed!!❤🇨🇦❤🇨🇦❤
@@letitiakearney2423 they were adopted before by people that were only in it for the money. Search their adoption story. Have a box of Kleenex with you when you watch it.
The look crystal had when Alex said the staff were more there to get the paycheck then go back home was such a heartbreaking look on her face and I agree with Alex so much, that's how most people are and it's just sad really
It breaks my heart hearing children going thru those hard situations but at the same time it makes me so happy to see where they are now and the love crystal and Aaron truly have for all their kids ❤️
I was in a foster home from 9 till 18 when I went off to college. This was the 70's so I don't know how much has changed. But I was just a paycheck to my foster family and I can remember how lonely it is felt to not be loved
Firstly, it broke my heart to see there is still so much pain from their group home experiences. Secondly it makes me so angry that people who earn money to care for children can think that its okay to treat a child badly! Alex and Hannah are two of the sweetest people with the best personalities who found their happy ending but my heart hurts for the kids stuck in these situation. All children, need love compassion and understanding! These children already come from bad situations into care and to think they are further traumatized breaks my heart! I volunteered for almost 8 years full time at my local childrens' aid making life story scrapbooks for foster kids and kids who were going to be adopted so they would know their history
this is so good to watch! my mom runs a youth shelter that takes in foster kids and run away kiddos and she is trying her hardest to make sure that these kids have a good experience. so again i will say thank you for sharing y’all’s story and i am so excited to share this with her!
I just had a vision of Hannah and Alex founding their own group home. I could totally see it happening. Like not being the main staff necessarily, but founding a non-profit and hiring the staff and making all the policies and stuff.
Agreed, I can see all of them being social workers. I can see them all being sweet as pie to the kids but, very hard to win over when viewing houses for safety concerns and or getting their kids back.
Thank you for sharing about foster care. I had an 11 yr. old foster daughter who came to me after her failed adoption. Apparently it wasn't a good match because the mother worked and was gone alot. The grandmother was with my daughter most of the time. The foster mother bought a bunch of dolls and toys for my daughter. When the adoption was called off, the mother refused to let my daughter take any of her clothing or toys. She could only take things which she initially brought into the house when she first moved in.... 😔. Then when my daughter moved into our family she wanted everything in sight, wherever we went. She thought if you loved her you'd buy her everything. Of course she would act out to test whether or not we'd make her leave our home. We reassured her that in time, we could make our new family work and that we all had an "off day" occasionally. I worked out a behavior modification chart tailored to her needs. I had my child and 2 foster children, all of whom had individual charts. The goal was for child to reach a number of stars at end of week and then receive reward or consequence, predetermined before chart started. However, if child received 4 sad faces at end of week, consequence (predetermined) might be child had to go to bed Saturday night 1/2 hr.earlier. Instant rewards for things done around the house would earn a star...i.e. making bed, kind words spoken, brushing teeth, no fighting or name calling, etc. Every Saturday we would count the stars and according to a certain number needed, the child would earn that priviledge. If a child was having alot of negative days, we would talk to the child privately, encouraging them to try harder, and suggesting that maybe they could think of something helpful they could do to earn a star. Then, they'd quickly go do something nice and we'd make a big deal of them being so nice and thoughtful. The child would run eagerly to their chart and we'd hand them their star which they proudly put on their chart. A lot of patience, counseling, school and home working together can in time reverse a lot of neglect the child has endured. Children are given to us as a gift from God, but for a season. Pray for children and caretakers everywhere. God bless y'all for the wonderful blessings you are providing to your families. 💕 CarrieJo/NC
I went through trauma at a young age. I wasn’t in foster care. I do completely understand the issues with memory though. I remember specific acts and circumstances, but a lot of my childhood is either a blank or mixed around with no specific timeline. People say, “If that really happened you would remember !”, but that’s not really how the brain works.
I found your channel two years ago and would binge videos every night. It was my time to have a good cry - a sad cry, but also a happy cry. Since then, you haven't had as many of these types of videos. I almost forgot that most of your children were adopted, which proves how much of a welcoming, loving, "normal"-ish :P home you provide for them. Their past will stick with them forever, as memories, but their present is so rich with love that it drowns out whatever was once true. I feel it now as a viewer, so I can only imagine that they completely feel it living inside your home.
One can tell by their somber conversation that they would rather forget that whole sordid part of their young lives. I hope talking about it helps them to heal even at least a little bit.
It was moving hearing about their experiences. I'm so grateful you rescued them and took them into a loving home. Unfortunately, not everyone is suited to be a foster parent. Bless you for all you do.
I’m not crying,you are…..They’re good strong kids /young adults now. Thanks to the love and support you give them (is all they really need) it can be hard sharing those experiences so I'm glad they feel safe and strong sharing it. ❤️
I just want to cry. We just adopted and I wish we could rescue more. Please spread awareness for the children. God Bless you Aaron and Crystal, you are amazing.
When I was growing up my parents did foster care and the kids did test them but my parents just showed them they loved them no matter what so I love your family. I still have some of those kids in my life still
I'm in my early 50s and was raised in the system in Idaho from 10yrs until emancipation at 17 yrs. When I'd goof up a foster placement I'd be sent back to the group home. I was so angry, misunderstood and lost. I longed for a placement and family such as you offer. No luck. A silver lining, I did find support and family feeling within my Church that I joined as an adult. Some of my emergency placements were part of the LDS Church and planted a seed of hope along the way of safety and a better way of life. I appreciate you all and thank you. 💓
Thank you for sharing so openly from your hearts! I taught for 10 years in 2 residential treatment centers. (One for girls and the other was coed) I absolutely loved the relationships that I made with my students. It has been 20 years since I taught there and I still get phone calls from many of the girls that I had. I will always have a special place in my heart for them!
I appreciate you both being brave enough to share your experience trying to help others. You can see in your eyes how hard it must be to relive and tell that part of your story. You are both amazing young adults. So glad you finally have the family to love and support you.
Wow! I can see and sense the emotional difficulty they are having recalling all they went through. They may not feel like or see themselves this way, but i see them as survivors. They are an inspiration and example to the kids currently in group homes and foster homes.
Alex and Hannah, thank you for speaking out. Was this painful for you. My mom was in a foster home way back in the late 1930s - 1940s . She also didn't remember alot. God gave us a brain that deletes horrific things in our lives. Both of you please just be happy. I love you spirit! Plus you seem to have the best Mom and Dad. I am proud of you. I love this family.
Highly highly highly recommend looking into becoming a CASA if you aren’t ready to foster or adopt. You can make so much impact and you can be the one person who REALLY cares. For many you’ll be the one consent in a revolving door of caseworkers, foster parents, teachers, and professionals
Look at you beautiful kids now. So much love, care and just unconditional family no matter what. I've loved watching you kids grow up. May God continue to bring beautiful memories and blessings to your life 💓💓
I use to volunteer at a food bank in my city in canada and we would drop food off at a few of the group homes once a week just to help them out a bit, The kids would be happy to see the big truck after we were done dropping the food off...
I lived in many Group Homes Since 8 years. Many of the staffs didn't meet my needs their were many problems and Saftey issues. Now that my parents helped me to find place for me to live Responsibility and being able to live in Community setting. With God's Grace I live independently with Supports.
The Sheriff of our county is in charge of our local group home. He also fund raises for the group home. Every year he asks for donations. I always give when he asks. He is a personal friend of mine. And he has asked if I wanted to take tour of the home and operation. I always said no. But that is going to change. The next time I will go. nd I will have some insight on some questions to ask. Thank you Hanna and Alex for opening up about your experience of a group home.
Thank you, Alex and Hannah, for sharing your experience with us. You're both amazing young adults, and I have no doubt you'll go on to do great things!
I really like what Alex said about staff at group homes. They were there to care and watch the children then go home to their families. There is lack of love and commitment a parent brings in investing into that relationship. So sad all your wonderful children had to go through this pain. I have grown to love each of them through the years watching them grow in your home home with love and your commitment in their lives.
So actually I had to split this up to watch it. It's so emotional to hear the truth that these kids have handed to them at such a young age. Too often they are expected to act one way or deal with things like an adult at an age they aren't ABLE to.
It’s so brave for them to open up about this! Thanks for letting us know more about foster care and etc, your vlogs always uplift my day with your beautiful family ❤️❤️
Not having a memory is a trauma response. I hope Hannah has had therapy or will get some when she’s ready to address her past. Love your channel and thank you Alex and Hannah for sharing ❤
That's sad! I have worked in group homes for handicapped kids in Germany and of course every kid should be treated the same. Where I worked kids got treated with love and they were supported to become as independent as possible. I'm just saying this to show that there is a different way for staff members to create a better atmosphere in a group home.
Hi everyone. I work as a support worker in my area disabled adults and it is very very hard work. I worked in many fields of support work. I didn’t know what I would be walking into. If this kid or adult disabled or aggressive or whatever the case maybe. Just have to be prepared and patient with them. Sit down and talk to them, get to know them better, take them out for one on one and show them what life really all about so if they want to move on to live by themselves. Again just have fun, be patient and learn from one and other. Hugs to you Guys. Crystal and Aaron Shelly and Jarred my heart goes out to you guys for having safe house roof over their heads bed to sleep on and wonderful food you guys prep for for these wonderful kids. Hugs.💕💕💕💕
Alex an Hanna thankyou so very much for sharing ur story with us I’m sure even to this day there is trauma in the back of ur head u could tell it was hard to talk about ur both so extremely beautiful wonderful people and loved very deeply now and I’m hoping those bad memories may one day be able to closed for u both love u both take care
Thank you so much Hannah and Alex for opening up my eyes to how you went through the foster care system. I don’t live in America and I can’t foster due to my situation however Im going to see if I can find a way to help kids in these situations such as buy them shoes, make donations and volunteer if possible where possible. You have opened my eyes up greatly. Thank you again. Take care
I’ve been in foster care since I was a baby and been moved around from foster home to foster home. But now I’ve been with my foster mother for 21 years already. Now I have my very own bedroom for my sister has moved out four weeks ago and I like having my own room
So great to get advice from kids that have lived through this all. I think that Alex and Hannah did a great job answering your questions with honesty and sound advice.
My husband and I are trying to save money for a new house and as soon as that happens we are gonna start the foster to adopt program. And we can't wait to see what the future holds.
So heartbreaking to see them talking about all these things. I’ve talked to people that are afraid of adopting because they think the kids will have a crush on each other or like each other but they have to be a family. So when Alex talked about that I wondered what would happen if Alex or one of the kids had a crush with another kid like Bella or Ariana. I know it’s weird to talk about it but it can happen. I really like this family. Adopting so many kids is just amazing. Thank you for this video and for giving these kids a family and a home.
when Alex mentioned about having a crush on a girl in the group home, I often wonder that about your kids. A huge family, kids of various ages, male and female, there's bound to be crushes... how do you deal with that within your family, especially with new kids that come like when Bella came in with her brothers is an example. It's just natural that people would have crushes on one another... especially if not biologically related so I wonder how that works in an adoptive family, especially as kids get to be teenagers.
I LOVE CRAZY PIECES to PIECES! The foster system is NOT perfect, but better than being on the street. Group homes are better than shelters, the co-ed can be confusing.
I was in the provincial adolescent group home when parents died till I aged out. They were amazing I still have contact but i also lived on a small island in canada.
Being a former foster child, a former group home worker & having a biological sister with mental issues whose currently been in a group home for 5+ years I definitely felt the need to watch this! I’m so happy and proud of Alex & Hannah! Until having to talk about the subjects they carry the weight that was put on them at a young age very well with the help of Aaron & Crystal! I love watching yalls channel/ family! 💕 much love from Alabama.
This truly breaks my heart listening to Alex and Hanna. You can see the pain especially in Alex's face as he re lives his past 💔 Am so glad Hanna does not remember much and it hurts to see that Alex does 😢 I just want to reach in and hug them both. So glad they found you two and your amazing family and your helping each one of those kids to heal and teach them that they truly are loved 😍 ❤️
I worked at a group home. I was a apalled at the way some of the workers treated the kids. It’s like they would trigger them on purpose knowing they were going to get an out of control reaction so that they could restrain them. It was like a power play. Did me no good to report it because there was no way I could prove that they were doing it on purpose. But I watched it daily. It was really sad. It was coed but the girls were on one end and the boys were on the other end and they were divided into “pods” by age. It was in the 90s. I got hit by a car so I was not able to physically restrain the kids anymore so I ended up switching tonight shift, and she’s right I ended up being responsible for cleaning the dorm while the kids were asleep. I held three jobs at that time it was ridiculous. Also this home was for what they considered on adoptable’s. Kids who had so much trauma and so much acting out that when they came in that was basically the only option for them. Some of the stories were horrendous. It was longer term because of the “condition” of the kids and one one one with kids a lot. Most kids I can remember being in a pod was eight and in the daytime they had to have two people on duty. The smaller units like that were units of four would have one house parent. Most of the kids had their own room because some of them were so out of control even though the furniture was purposely really really heavy so they couldn’t throw it that wasn’t always the case. So many food hoarding issues and kids that wouldn’t go the bathroom at night that would go to the bathroom in their rooms. Just a lot of issues but when you knew where they came from…
Who takes care of Aunt Bonnie and Mindi and mom's houses while they help you guys. Just wondering because they BELONG 100% with you guys. I love the three of them SOOOOO MUCH
Alex and Hannah are so mature and sweet. You guys have done such an awesome job of loving them, caring for them, showing them that they are valued, and guiding them into adulthood. May God bless you all so much. Love you guys.
Alex U be great working with kids. U are a great person to be around children that need a positive role model. Hannah keep being sweet and enjoy ur life freely with out any fear. U are in a safe place. 🥰🙏🏻🇵🇷
Your videos and family have inspired me. My husband and I are foster parents now and just adopted our first child in August. We are also close to adopting our other 2 children. We went from no children to 3 and we feel so blessed. We are considering bringing in one or 2 more once we are settled and adoptions are final on our other 2. Just wanted to say thank you and I love your foster care videos
I relate 100% as i was in them from a young child till i grow up back in the 80 90 in nottingham in the uk they were bad but there was some nice staff but some not i ran away alot and they put me in a secret units for over 2 years lock up and i did nothing worng it still inpack me today as soon as i could i left the country and for 25 years i ended up going tho a bad marrige could not go home or i lose my kid so i stayed next week im going home with one of my children the other 2 are 18 and 23 so living there life the best they can but my son help me to beabl to leve with my 8 year old daughter im scered and all has chage and having to start all over again im now 47 and diabeic i pray i can do it for my littel girl i wish i was lucky to of found a family like yours as my life may have been so diffent but it my job to try make hers better, sending so much love to your family you are great to have helped so menny kids that live would of been so so diffent with out you both please just rember you are hevly agels and god see all for you desev all the happnee in the world and you have geve them kids so much more then youll ever know sending a big hug to you both and all your family ❤
I went to high school with some kids who used to be in foster care and I remember them saying school was there "get away" so I understand the meaning behind what Alex and Hannah mean and ps Hannah and Alex you both have become two beautiful people and yes he can be beautiful too lol but I've been watching for about 4 years now and I just gotta say what an amazing glow up for the both of you!!!
I don’t know if it was a group home or what but when I was a Teenager when I was homeless my Mom took me somewhere but it was only for one night due to a misunderstanding on whatever that home was. I met some Councilor there or whatever he was that seemed very wise that seem to be able to read people.
Thats hard broken you should treat kids like you're own.. it don't have to be blood.. kids needs love to no matter what they are!!! Alex and Hannah and others kids so bless to have amazing parents ❤ God bless you all.. much love..
As I watch this and I see the look on Hannah's face and hear her say she doesn't really remember much it makes me wonder if that is a defense mechanism. I have about a year of my life that I just cannot remember anything from, all I can imagine is that it is my brain protecting me from something and I wonder if that is something going on with her...
Wish there was a way to convey to Alex what a great person he is. He is in a wonderful home now and I know you guys have showered him with love, but I still get the impression that he thinks that he was a “bad” kid.
I have a mild intellectual disability, and they place me under the emergency waiver, since I was homeless, staff sleeping when they weren’t supposed to taking me to drive her kids to work. I am taking her to go get her fingerprints because she didn’t do them so basically I was sitting in the police station lobby for about an hour in Pennsylvania that is basically breaking all the state guidelines so now I’m going into a long-term residential respite and I am hoping that this group home is a lot better than the other one that I was in I am going to be the only one in the house with 24 hours staff but my support coordinator said don’t be surprised if they do put someone in with you which I am OK with since I am a very social person
My Sisters and I got taken out of my Dad's home. My Sisters were in foster care. My one Sister and I went to live with my Mom and Step Dad. That was a big blessing for us. My other Sisters because of circumstances tried to live there also but it didn't work out. Luckily we were able to keep in touch. My Mom still loved them but she could not handle a lot of kids. I am always grateful my Step Dad took us in. His kids were grown but his daughter and us looked like Sisters. We loved it. My Sisters had some hard times and some good times.
Much respect to Hannah and Alex for their courage in telling their story. It will create continued awareness of what kids in the foster system face. We humans are bombarded daily with all kinds of information. So it is important to keep the foster child experience in the forefront. Again, much courage by Hannah and Alex.
I was a CASA when I was living in Nashville. Unfortunately grad school took me away from it cause between working full time and school, but its top of the list to get back to once I'm done with school
My heart aches for these kids ! I know kids that was in a foster home and they were treated horrible ! They would have to split one meal. They were put in closets for the fun of it . this is totally disgusting ! Those kids are Adults now and all messed up! You and Aaron are amazing parents to all your kids!v thank you !❤❤
This video was hard for me to watch but I’m glad that you guys are open and honest about what goes on in foster care and group homes and stuff like that I had to go through the same thing as a child and it reminds me of everything that I went through and it was hard going through the system my entire life and I’m so glad that your kids have you guys as parents because I never was able to be adopted out I literally enter the system when I was eight years old and aged out of the system because the system is broken
My husband and I are going to foster panel on Friday. Thank you for your videos and encouragement, you are part off the reason , we have got to the start off our journey! J
This is so eye opening. Thank you for sharing. My husband and I have a meeting with the social worker tomorrow. So we are praying for a good outcome. We in South Africa,❤️
I have seen the older vlogs on this topic, a couple of years ago. Hannah and Alex are strong, to be able to talk about it on camera. In the older vlogs you exposed not only the difficult and traumatic experiences in grouphomes, but also of foster/adoption families. Even the fact of being sent back after adoption. So Alex's question for good understanding and patience when we are taking in a child, is very commendable. Hannah looks always so saddened, yet behaves so composed and dignified when she talks about her past. Alex looks at times as if he is triggered, which is totally understandable. My respect for these two siblings of heart. Thanks to you all for your ongoing endeavours for awareness for fostercare and adoption. Much love 🥰
I just got licensed along with my husband. I’m so thankful for what ALEX said at the end of the video. It’s really what I needed to hear. We’ve been doing respite care while we wait for a placement and it has been very difficult. What we’ve seen and experienced so far made me question getting licensed and having a more permanent placement. But Alex’s comment was healing to my soul.
I thank goodness for things like RUclips because it has given so many kids in foster care or who are going through adoption a platform to share their stories unflitered. People on the outside tend to just paint this rosy picture that, oh, kids are fine if they're in foster care, but for a lot of kids, it takes such an emotional toll or it's hell with people out there who take advantage of the system and don't actually care about the kids at all. As adults, we're supposed to protect kids, and give them love or at the very least, show kindness, and make them feel safe even if they aren't ours biologically. I hope this video really helps someone chose the path of adoption/foster care, or let's them see as a caregiver what maybe they need to be more aware of.
I wish there were more loving families out there that would open their homes for kids in the foster system... it hurts my heart that there are so many in just one state!!! My husband and I are both 60 with serious medical issues, otherwise we would probably become foster parents, and I am sure these kids go through so much having to go through changing what home they live in, whether or not they like the foster homes they go to, how they are treated in those homes... the fact that you not only are a foster family, but usually adopt the kids you foster, just makes my heart happy that you care so much about all of these kids and do treat them like they are your own flesh and blood. God has certainly blessed you and your family for the love and compassion you give to all of your kids.... I don't know if there are "perfect parents" in this world.... but I do know that you would be way up on the top of the list and great examples of what parents SHOULD BE!! Thank you Crystal and Aaron... for being the best parents for these kids and teaching them the life skills they need to become successful when they are ready to move out into the world... they are very fortunate to learn those skills while they are growing up.... I was never taught how to cook, balance a checkbook, learn about investments, teaching them responsibility and accountability, honesty... I joined the military, got out after getting divorced after giving birth to our son (he cheated on me and left us), and struggled as a single parent for years (I got married for the 2nd time when my son was 9)... your kids do know how blessed they truly are after living in the foster care system, I hope they open their homes to other kids in the foster care system when they are old enough to do so! I love watching your channel.... it makes me happy to see a family who truly cares about one another!
Hannah, it must be hard if people take your stuff and so now when you first go into your home crystal I think now she probably feels like she is being treated properly foster care can be hard even coming out of a group home and then starting their life out fresh and now Hannah and Alex feel like their parent's crystal and Arron understand coming out of a group home or foster care can be hard now they feel like their with actual parents crystal you are an amazing mother I hope that I get to meet you guys I am fan I live in Hawaii I do online college and graduated this year from hawaii community college and now working toward my batchlers degree
How could anyone have kids then give them up! That is sick and disgusting the child didn't ask to be born. in this world If you can't be a mother or father and raise your kids then do not have them keep you dam legs closed or get a Chastity Belt or take a pill. Hannah 💋❤you are a GEM! I feel you guys don't trust people or very emotional around people and that's very understandable in your guys situation and pass I can see it in both of your eyes.still to this day. Alex❤you guys have the best Family now. I couldn't imagine what you guys when through in those group homes. A lot of kids live on the streets instead in the group homes they can be very dangerous to live in. GOD BLESS ALL THESE KIDS IN GROUP HOMES AND FOSTER CARE. YOU guys really are the lucky ones to have a mother and father now who loves them so much. Crystal and Aaron yo guys are the real hero's to all these kids. So sad💋💋💋💋💋. ❤❤❤❤❤❤💋❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ My prayer go out to all of you
I lived in multiple group homes two. It was sadly not the best experience. Only one out of a handful was good. In two particular we were treated like less then instead of equals. Thank you for sharing your stories!
i was in foster care from the age of 7/1/2 and they just kept moving me to diffrent foster homes and level 14s group and homes ,I felt that the help to get in a prement place social worker told them that i was to late for help so i stayed intell i was 19years old and then kicked out and i was on the streets to live by my self ...
I’ve volunteered helping repaint and redo the backyard at a boys group home of teenage boys. The group home could take 6 boys. In lots of ways it was a structured atmosphere, but it’s also a job. Most of these kids are taken out of their homes for a reason for example the parents are neglectful due to drug addiction, they are going to jail for a crime they committed and more. Poor parenting seems to be the norm which means the kids are called names, starved as a parent chooses to feed their drug habit vs feed their kids. I also went to a camp for kids 7-11 and they were jaded and had trauma due to their upbringing which could be being a dangerous home with their parents and then going from home to home. In some cases kids get moved from places to place because their parents are committing crimes after they get out of jail in a different county, so then the child is moved to that county. It’s so complicated. I also painted and redecorated our local Department of Children and Family services office. The in take room had to work from a new born to an 17 year old. I created zones as they didn’t really have a teen space prior to our team coming. When kids stay the night in the office it’s because they can’t find foster care homes to place them in. It’s a horrible process and their case worker stays the night with them. I added a futon so they had a sofa area or watch tv and a bed to sleep in. Most of the budgets go to training. There’s just not enough money and care going towards kids in foster care. You can tell by Hannah face that it was traumatic for her and probably why she doesn’t remember a lot of it. I hope after having had her do this interview you get here some counseling.
I know it is important to get the information out about group homes and foster care. I just hate to see the looks on their faces when they talk about it. Bringing up all of the hard times. I just want to grab them and hug them.
I agree. I know she had good intentions and many people found this episode educational. However, I'm a bit upset that she had these young adults share a very painful and vulnerable period in their lives. From the looks on their faces I can't help to think they would rather not have had this conversation but did it for Crystal. I'm probably wrong but I was in tears seeing Hannah & Alex hurting.
Ya, I won’t say which brand I have due to respect..but I have 2 solar panel batteries. I’m going to get another for just the fridge. They are good to have in emergency. I live in the high desert in calif.
Honestly watching your channel made me want to be more involved with foster care and helped me realize I want to get a masters in social work. About a month ago I actually started working in a group home and it’s been so difficult bc some of the staff treat the people in my home so disrespectfully. I love that I am able to be one of the staff that is in this position for the right reasons but mannn being able to read these kids cases is so emotionally taxing. It really hurts my hear how many people are being mistreated prior to a group home and then get placed in a group home that still isn’t beneficial for them. So glad your kids have you because so many of them don’t have people who love them and want to do right by them!
I worked in a RTF (residential treatment facility), they would do trainings on how we where not a "parent role" we where staff. If you got close to a kid and bonded you would be warned and told you would be moved. I did not stay there long.
Thanks for sharing this, it's a real eye-opener. I know I've wanted to foster/adopt for a long time, hopefully in next few years. I know there are certain challenges but I want to be able to provide a loving home to them. I also am planning to do this as a single woman but hopefully I can give a forever home to some of these kids in foster care.
I love watching your videos. I wish I was young enough to adopt. Thank you for sharing that generator. I'm living with my mom she does dialysis every night and my stepdad needs a machine for oxygen at night. I live in California where we are getting blackouts. It scares me. My mom does her dialysis at home. I don't have a lot of money so I'm hoping this generator is it so pricey as the other ones. If you one less thing off my stress list. I love you guys and I love what you do for these kids you have a beautiful family. ❤️🙏
at least crystal now your kids as they are already grown up and now crystal probualy now you are actually understanding parents so it can be hard and now Hannah and Alex probably feel like they are being treated now respectfully because of their parents crystal and Arron are now kind loving parents that treat them the way they wanted to be treated
A couple of things I’m still curious about- Who handles parent/teacher conferences if the child is in a group home? Who signs permissions slips for the child, or who does the school contact if the child is in trouble? What were the holidays like in a group home and does the group home respect dietary restrictions?
My mother passed from cancer when I was 2. Then my father was an abusive addict so I got both with my grandparents who ended up also being abusive..school was my only escape..until in the 8th grade I started getting bullied... it made life nearly impossible to survive at that point. I actually ran away at 17. I am now 21 have 2 kids own a house and I'm married. I'm in a good place now and see a therapist but I agree kids need to be nice to other kids in school because u don't know what goes on at home. My grandparents had a nice home..but it wasn't a safe home. The system over looked me because my home looked nice... school was my sanctuary until some.mean kids took that from me.
I don't remember a lot as I think our minds block out trauma but being transferred into a group home in the middle of the night was a really scary experience. I have a strong memory of waking up being surrounded by kids wanting to know who I was and I felt extremely vulnerable 😢
I am a Household Supervisor at a school for kids with different disabilities. It is not nearly the same as a group home, but just listening to your stories made me realize how important it is when you work with children. I normally say that there is a story behind a kids behavior.
It would be amazing if you could become a spokesperson for children in foster homes. ❤️
My heart hurts so much at the pain that is still in Hannah and Alex's eyes, I'm so grateful they found their family. Thank you for being such amazing understanding parents. Sending love from Wilsonville Oregon
I know I could tell she didn’t like talking about it. Love them both 🥰
@@nyalli13 I think she wants to share with others, especially kids, but it's hard for her. She's a very special young lady with a heart of gold.
@@brendad940 definitely! I’m so glad to see videos out there like this 🥰
I’m 28 and I live in a shelter due to my severe disability. I really wish I could be adopted. That’s always been my childhood dream as well as to adopt one day. Your videos are my reason to live.
I pray you get the family you desire . In Jesus name , amen ❤🙏🏾
@@althealawrence4654 thank you so very much
God bless n may ur dream come true....love n prayers from Bhutan(asiain country).
I am 42 🤦 & still wish I was adopted by a good family then and now😂❤️..
Family is important, but sucks when you don't have that kind of support..!
Sucks when our birth families & the system fails some of us...
Vanessa im so very sorry to hear your going thru this now my heart goes out to you. As living with severe medical issues myself I know how hard life is but to add a shelter in the picture im so sorry your going thru so much and you have no family support to be their for you thru this. No one deserves what your going thru.. Sometimes its hard to understand why were in a position were in and why God will allow this to happen to us however I've learned that God always has a plan for our life and he always uses our battles for a reason. he never waists a battle I pray that one day some family will adopt you and let you feel loved and apart of a family... I pray God will comfort you and help you thru this hard time.. I also pray for your mental state also pray that God will answer your prayers ... Your a beautiful and amazing person never forget that.... Keep your head up and stay strong... Send my love as a older sister and pray you love yourself... God bless you Vanessa 🙏 ❤
My mum fostered over 100 children in 40+ yrs until she retired 4yrs ago some children were short term but alot were long term love them all the same no matter how long they were with us ❤️ 💙
That’s amazing!
I was in a group home 31 years ago!! Here in Canada Ontario things are drastically different then the US!! The staff was great and I made quite a few friends. Mine was co-ed!!❤🇨🇦❤🇨🇦❤
@@letitiakearney2423 they were adopted before by people that were only in it for the money. Search their adoption story. Have a box of Kleenex with you when you watch it.
They’re good (good as it can be) and bad group homes here in the states. Like everything else it’s all about the people running it
@@nataliedeyton6829 I totally agree!! I didn't mean anything by it.
The look crystal had when Alex said the staff were more there to get the paycheck then go back home was such a heartbreaking look on her face and I agree with Alex so much, that's how most people are and it's just sad really
It breaks my heart hearing children going thru those hard situations but at the same time it makes me so happy to see where they are now and the love crystal and Aaron truly have for all their kids ❤️
I was in a foster home from 9 till 18 when I went off to college. This was the 70's so I don't know how much has changed. But I was just a paycheck to my foster family and I can remember how lonely it is felt to not be loved
Firstly, it broke my heart to see there is still so much pain from their group home experiences. Secondly it makes me so angry that people who earn money to care for children can think that its okay to treat a child badly! Alex and Hannah are two of the sweetest people with the best personalities who found their happy ending but my heart hurts for the kids stuck in these situation. All children, need love compassion and understanding! These children already come from bad situations into care and to think they are further traumatized breaks my heart! I volunteered for almost 8 years full time at my local childrens' aid making life story scrapbooks for foster kids and kids who were going to be adopted so they would know their history
this is so good to watch! my mom runs a youth shelter that takes in foster kids and run away kiddos and she is trying her hardest to make sure that these kids have a good experience. so again i will say thank you for sharing y’all’s story and i am so excited to share this with her!
It is kinda hard to monitor if they are too many
@@eggy2229 there is never more than 8 kids at a time which helps a lot
@@alisonackland9429 oh that’s a fair number then. I am expecting 30 plus or something
@@alisonackland9429 j
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I just had a vision of Hannah and Alex founding their own group home. I could totally see it happening. Like not being the main staff necessarily, but founding a non-profit and hiring the staff and making all the policies and stuff.
Agreed, I can see all of them being social workers. I can see them all being sweet as pie to the kids but, very hard to win over when viewing houses for safety concerns and or getting their kids back.
@@SharksRevenge that is sad 😥
Thank you for sharing about foster care. I had an 11 yr. old foster daughter who came to me after her failed adoption. Apparently it wasn't a good match because the mother worked and was gone alot. The grandmother was with my daughter most of the time. The foster mother bought a bunch of dolls and toys for my daughter. When the adoption was called off, the mother refused to let my daughter take any of her clothing or toys. She could only take things which she initially brought into the house when she first moved in.... 😔. Then when my daughter moved into our family she wanted everything in sight, wherever we went. She thought if you loved her you'd buy her everything. Of course she would act out to test whether or not we'd make her leave our home. We reassured her that in time, we could make our new family work and that we all had an "off day" occasionally. I worked out a behavior modification chart tailored to her needs. I had my child and 2 foster children, all of whom had individual charts. The goal was for child to reach a number of stars at end of week and then receive reward or consequence, predetermined before chart started. However, if child received 4 sad faces at end of week, consequence (predetermined) might be child had to go to bed Saturday night 1/2 hr.earlier. Instant rewards for things done around the house would earn a star...i.e. making bed, kind words spoken, brushing teeth, no fighting or name calling, etc. Every Saturday we would count the stars and according to a certain number needed, the child would earn that priviledge. If a child was having alot of negative days, we would talk to the child privately, encouraging them to try harder, and suggesting that maybe they could think of something helpful they could do to earn a star. Then, they'd quickly go do something nice and we'd make a big deal of them being so nice and thoughtful. The child would run eagerly to their chart and we'd hand them their star which they proudly put on their chart. A lot of patience, counseling, school and home working together can in time reverse a lot of neglect the child has endured. Children are given to us as a gift from God, but for a season. Pray for children and caretakers everywhere. God bless y'all for the wonderful blessings you are providing to your families. 💕 CarrieJo/NC
I went through trauma at a young age. I wasn’t in foster care. I do completely understand the issues with memory though. I remember specific acts and circumstances, but a lot of my childhood is either a blank or mixed around with no specific timeline. People say, “If that really happened you would remember !”, but that’s not really how the brain works.
i feel like this is an important video that shouldn't have been ruined by adding the sponsor..
I found your channel two years ago and would binge videos every night. It was my time to have a good cry - a sad cry, but also a happy cry. Since then, you haven't had as many of these types of videos. I almost forgot that most of your children were adopted, which proves how much of a welcoming, loving, "normal"-ish :P home you provide for them. Their past will stick with them forever, as memories, but their present is so rich with love that it drowns out whatever was once true. I feel it now as a viewer, so I can only imagine that they completely feel it living inside your home.
One can tell by their somber conversation that they would rather forget that whole sordid part of their young lives. I hope talking about it helps them to heal even at least a little bit.
It was moving hearing about their experiences. I'm so grateful you rescued them and took them into a loving home. Unfortunately, not everyone is suited to be a foster parent. Bless you for all you do.
I’m not crying,you are…..They’re good strong kids /young adults now. Thanks to the love and support you give them (is all they really need) it can be hard sharing those experiences so I'm glad they feel safe and strong sharing it. ❤️
I just want to cry. We just adopted and I wish we could rescue more. Please spread awareness for the children. God Bless you Aaron and Crystal, you are amazing.
It is wonderful that you decided to adopt! There are so many children in need of loving homes. I pray for the best for you all.
When I was growing up my parents did foster care and the kids did test them but my parents just showed them they loved them no matter what so I love your family. I still have some of those kids in my life still
I'm in my early 50s and was raised in the system in Idaho from 10yrs until emancipation at 17 yrs. When I'd goof up a foster placement I'd be sent back to the group home. I was so angry, misunderstood and lost. I longed for a placement and family such as you offer. No luck. A silver lining, I did find support and family feeling within my Church that I joined as an adult. Some of my emergency placements were part of the LDS Church and planted a seed of hope along the way of safety and a better way of life. I appreciate you all and thank you. 💓
Thank you Alex and Hannah for sharing this part of your history with us all!
Thank you for sharing so openly from your hearts! I taught for 10 years in 2 residential treatment centers. (One for girls and the other was coed) I absolutely loved the relationships that I made with my students. It has been 20 years since I taught there and I still get phone calls from many of the girls that I had. I will always have a special place in my heart for them!
Thanks for sharing your experiences! My heart goes out to all the kids in group homes.
I appreciate you both being brave enough to share your experience trying to help others. You can see in your eyes how hard it must be to relive and tell that part of your story. You are both amazing young adults. So glad you finally have the family to love and support you.
Wow! I can see and sense the emotional difficulty they are having recalling all they went through. They may not feel like or see themselves this way, but i see them as survivors. They are an inspiration and example to the kids currently in group homes and foster homes.
Alex and Hannah, thank you for speaking out. Was this painful for you. My mom was in a foster home way back in the late 1930s - 1940s . She also didn't remember alot. God gave us a brain that deletes horrific things in our lives. Both of you please just be happy. I love you spirit!
Plus you seem to have the best Mom and Dad. I am proud of you. I love this family.
Highly highly highly recommend looking into becoming a CASA if you aren’t ready to foster or adopt. You can make so much impact and you can be the one person who REALLY cares. For many you’ll be the one consent in a revolving door of caseworkers, foster parents, teachers, and professionals
Look at you beautiful kids now. So much love, care and just unconditional family no matter what. I've loved watching you kids grow up. May God continue to bring beautiful memories and blessings to your life 💓💓
I use to volunteer at a food bank in my city in canada and we would drop food off at a few of the group homes once a week just to help them out a bit, The kids would be happy to see the big truck after we were done dropping the food off...
I lived in many Group Homes Since 8 years.
Many of the staffs didn't meet my needs their were many problems and Saftey issues.
Now that my parents helped me to find place for me to live Responsibility and being able to live in Community setting.
With God's Grace I live independently with Supports.
The Sheriff of our county is in charge of our local group home. He also fund raises for the group home. Every year he asks for donations. I always give when he asks. He is a personal friend of mine. And he has asked if I wanted to take tour of the home and operation. I always said no. But that is going to change. The next time I will go. nd I will have some insight on some questions to ask. Thank you Hanna and Alex for opening up about your experience of a group home.
Thank you, Alex and Hannah, for sharing your experience with us. You're both amazing young adults, and I have no doubt you'll go on to do great things!
I really like what Alex said about staff at group homes. They were there to care and watch the children then go home to their families. There is lack of love and commitment a parent brings in investing into that relationship. So sad all your wonderful children had to go through this pain. I have grown to love each of them through the years watching them grow in your home home with love and your commitment in their lives.
So actually I had to split this up to watch it. It's so emotional to hear the truth that these kids have handed to them at such a young age. Too often they are expected to act one way or deal with things like an adult at an age they aren't ABLE to.
It’s so brave for them to open up about this! Thanks for letting us know more about foster care and etc, your vlogs always uplift my day with your beautiful family ❤️❤️
Not having a memory is a trauma response. I hope Hannah has had therapy or will get some when she’s ready to address her past. Love your channel and thank you Alex and Hannah for sharing ❤
My parents were foster parents when i was growing up, and this video opened my eyes to certain behaviors i have. Good video! Glad they found you.
That's sad! I have worked in group homes for handicapped kids in Germany and of course every kid should be treated the same. Where I worked kids got treated with love and they were supported to become as independent as possible. I'm just saying this to show that there is a different way for staff members to create a better atmosphere in a group home.
Hannah looks sad reliving the experience. Trama.. hugs and kisses from south Texas
Hi everyone. I work as a support worker in my area disabled adults and it is very very hard work. I worked in many fields of support work. I didn’t know what I would be walking into. If this kid or adult disabled or aggressive or whatever the case maybe. Just have to be prepared and patient with them. Sit down and talk to them, get to know them better, take them out for one on one and show them what life really all about so if they want to move on to live by themselves. Again just have fun, be patient and learn from one and other. Hugs to you Guys. Crystal and Aaron Shelly and Jarred my heart goes out to you guys for having safe house roof over their heads bed to sleep on and wonderful food you guys prep for for these wonderful kids. Hugs.💕💕💕💕
Alex an Hanna thankyou so very much for sharing ur story with us I’m sure even to this day there is trauma in the back of ur head u could tell it was hard to talk about ur both so extremely beautiful wonderful people and loved very deeply now and I’m hoping those bad memories may one day be able to closed for u both love u both take care
Thank you so much Hannah and Alex for opening up my eyes to how you went through the foster care system. I don’t live in America and I can’t foster due to my situation however Im going to see if I can find a way to help kids in these situations such as buy them shoes, make donations and volunteer if possible where possible. You have opened my eyes up greatly. Thank you again. Take care
Alex and Hannah's resilience is admirable! Thank you for sharing
Do you think it is appropriate to have a sponsor on a video where your children are talking about their hard experiences/trauma?
I’ve been in foster care since I was a baby and been moved around from foster home to foster home. But now I’ve been with my foster mother for 21 years already. Now I have my very own bedroom for my sister has moved out four weeks ago and I like having my own room
So great to get advice from kids that have lived through this all. I think that Alex and Hannah did a great job answering your questions with honesty and sound advice.
My husband and I are trying to save money for a new house and as soon as that happens we are gonna start the foster to adopt program. And we can't wait to see what the future holds.
So heartbreaking to see them talking about all these things. I’ve talked to people that are afraid of adopting because they think the kids will have a crush on each other or like each other but they have to be a family. So when Alex talked about that I wondered what would happen if Alex or one of the kids had a crush with another kid like Bella or Ariana. I know it’s weird to talk about it but it can happen. I really like this family. Adopting so many kids is just amazing. Thank you for this video and for giving these kids a family and a home.
Not gonna lie, I've wondered about that too x
when Alex mentioned about having a crush on a girl in the group home, I often wonder that about your kids. A huge family, kids of various ages, male and female, there's bound to be crushes... how do you deal with that within your family, especially with new kids that come like when Bella came in with her brothers is an example. It's just natural that people would have crushes on one another... especially if not biologically related so I wonder how that works in an adoptive family, especially as kids get to be teenagers.
Arms Family Homestead featured the EcoFlow and lots of other products that work with it. It’s impressive, especially with solar charging.
I LOVE CRAZY PIECES to PIECES! The foster system is NOT perfect, but better than being on the street. Group homes are better than shelters, the co-ed can be confusing.
I was in the provincial adolescent group home when parents died till I aged out. They were amazing I still have contact but i also lived on a small island in canada.
Being a former foster child, a former group home worker & having a biological sister with mental issues whose currently been in a group home for 5+ years I definitely felt the need to watch this! I’m so happy and proud of Alex & Hannah! Until having to talk about the subjects they carry the weight that was put on them at a young age very well with the help of Aaron & Crystal! I love watching yalls channel/ family! 💕 much love from Alabama.
This truly breaks my heart listening to Alex and Hanna. You can see the pain especially in Alex's face as he re lives his past 💔 Am so glad Hanna does not remember much and it hurts to see that Alex does 😢 I just want to reach in and hug them both. So glad they found you two and your amazing family and your helping each one of those kids to heal and teach them that they truly are loved 😍 ❤️
I worked at a group home. I was a apalled at the way some of the workers treated the kids. It’s like they would trigger them on purpose knowing they were going to get an out of control reaction so that they could restrain them. It was like a power play. Did me no good to report it because there was no way I could prove that they were doing it on purpose. But I watched it daily. It was really sad. It was coed but the girls were on one end and the boys were on the other end and they were divided into “pods” by age. It was in the 90s. I got hit by a car so I was not able to physically restrain the kids anymore so I ended up switching tonight shift, and she’s right I ended up being responsible for cleaning the dorm while the kids were asleep. I held three jobs at that time it was ridiculous. Also this home was for what they considered on adoptable’s. Kids who had so much trauma and so much acting out that when they came in that was basically the only option for them. Some of the stories were horrendous. It was longer term because of the “condition” of the kids and one one one with kids a lot. Most kids I can remember being in a pod was eight and in the daytime they had to have two people on duty. The smaller units like that were units of four would have one house parent. Most of the kids had their own room because some of them were so out of control even though the furniture was purposely really really heavy so they couldn’t throw it that wasn’t always the case. So many food hoarding issues and kids that wouldn’t go the bathroom at night that would go to the bathroom in their rooms. Just a lot of issues but when you knew where they came from…
It is beyond sad that these children were treated this way. Prayers that this is no longer the case...in any situation involving children.💔
I’m a junior in highschool taking PSEO classes and I’m trying to pursue a ba in social work. Then after I complete my ba, I’m gonna get my masters!!
Broke my heart to watch this. I pray all these precious children find loving homes. 🙏
Who takes care of Aunt Bonnie and Mindi and mom's houses while they help you guys. Just wondering because they BELONG 100% with you guys. I love the three of them SOOOOO MUCH
Alex and Hannah are so mature and sweet. You guys have done such an awesome job of loving them, caring for them, showing them that they are valued, and guiding them into adulthood. May God bless you all so much. Love you guys.
Alex U be great working with kids. U are a great person to be around children that need a positive role model. Hannah keep being sweet and enjoy ur life freely with out any fear. U are in a safe place. 🥰🙏🏻🇵🇷
Your videos and family have inspired me. My husband and I are foster parents now and just adopted our first child in August. We are also close to adopting our other 2 children. We went from no children to 3 and we feel so blessed. We are considering bringing in one or 2 more once we are settled and adoptions are final on our other 2. Just wanted to say thank you and I love your foster care videos
I relate 100% as i was in them from a young child till i grow up back in the 80 90 in nottingham in the uk they were bad but there was some nice staff but some not i ran away alot and they put me in a secret units for over 2 years lock up and i did nothing worng it still inpack me today as soon as i could i left the country and for 25 years i ended up going tho a bad marrige could not go home or i lose my kid so i stayed next week im going home with one of my children the other 2 are 18 and 23 so living there life the best they can but my son help me to beabl to leve with my 8 year old daughter im scered and all has chage and having to start all over again im now 47 and diabeic i pray i can do it for my littel girl i wish i was lucky to of found a family like yours as my life may have been so diffent but it my job to try make hers better, sending so much love to your family you are great to have helped so menny kids that live would of been so so diffent with out you both please just rember you are hevly agels and god see all for you desev all the happnee in the world and you have geve them kids so much more then youll ever know sending a big hug to you both and all your family ❤
I went to high school with some kids who used to be in foster care and I remember them saying school was there "get away" so I understand the meaning behind what Alex and Hannah mean and ps Hannah and Alex you both have become two beautiful people and yes he can be beautiful too lol but I've been watching for about 4 years now and I just gotta say what an amazing glow up for the both of you!!!
I don’t know if it was a group home or what but when I was a Teenager when I was homeless my Mom took me somewhere but it was only for one night due to a misunderstanding on whatever that home was.
I met some Councilor there or whatever he was that seemed very wise that seem to be able to read people.
Thats hard broken you should treat kids like you're own.. it don't have to be blood.. kids needs love to no matter what they are!!! Alex and Hannah and others kids so bless to have amazing parents ❤ God bless you all.. much love..
I feel for these kids in group homes 🥹 how I wish I could adopt or foster.I will def look into volunteering
As I watch this and I see the look on Hannah's face and hear her say she doesn't really remember much it makes me wonder if that is a defense mechanism. I have about a year of my life that I just cannot remember anything from, all I can imagine is that it is my brain protecting me from something and I wonder if that is something going on with her...
Wish there was a way to convey to Alex what a great person he is. He is in a wonderful home now and I know you guys have showered him with love, but I still get the impression that he thinks that he was a “bad” kid.
I have a mild intellectual disability, and they place me under the emergency waiver, since I was homeless, staff sleeping when they weren’t supposed to taking me to drive her kids to work. I am taking her to go get her fingerprints because she didn’t do them so basically I was sitting in the police station lobby for about an hour in Pennsylvania that is basically breaking all the state guidelines so now I’m going into a long-term residential respite and I am hoping that this group home is a lot better than the other one that I was in I am going to be the only one in the house with 24 hours staff but my support coordinator said don’t be surprised if they do put someone in with you which I am OK with since I am a very social person
My Sisters and I got taken out of my Dad's home. My Sisters were in foster care. My one Sister and I went to live with my Mom and Step Dad. That was a big blessing for us. My other Sisters because of circumstances tried to live there also but it didn't work out. Luckily we were able to keep in touch. My Mom still loved them but she could not handle a lot of kids. I am always grateful my Step Dad took us in. His kids were grown but his daughter and us looked like Sisters. We loved it. My Sisters had some hard times and some good times.
Much respect to Hannah and Alex for their courage in telling their story. It will create continued awareness of what kids in the foster system face. We humans are bombarded daily with all kinds of information. So it is important to keep the foster child experience in the forefront. Again, much courage by Hannah and Alex.
I was a CASA when I was living in Nashville. Unfortunately grad school took me away from it cause between working full time and school, but its top of the list to get back to once I'm done with school
This was swaaf. Our church used to give backpacks full of personal items for kids when they were first removed from their homes.
My heart aches for these kids ! I know kids that was in a foster home and they were treated horrible ! They would have to split one meal. They were put in closets for the fun of it . this is totally disgusting ! Those kids are Adults now and all messed up! You and Aaron are amazing parents to all your kids!v thank you !❤❤
This video was hard for me to watch but I’m glad that you guys are open and honest about what goes on in foster care and group homes and stuff like that I had to go through the same thing as a child and it reminds me of everything that I went through and it was hard going through the system my entire life and I’m so glad that your kids have you guys as parents because I never was able to be adopted out I literally enter the system when I was eight years old and aged out of the system because the system is broken
My husband and I are going to foster panel on Friday. Thank you for your videos and encouragement, you are part off the reason , we have got to the start off our journey! J
This is so eye opening. Thank you for sharing. My husband and I have a meeting with the social worker tomorrow. So we are praying for a good outcome. We in South Africa,❤️
I have seen the older vlogs on this topic, a couple of years ago. Hannah and Alex are strong, to be able to talk about it on camera.
In the older vlogs you exposed not only the difficult and traumatic experiences in grouphomes, but also of foster/adoption families. Even the fact of being sent back after adoption.
So Alex's question for good understanding and patience when we are taking in a child, is very commendable.
Hannah looks always so saddened, yet behaves so composed and dignified when she talks about her past.
Alex looks at times as if he is triggered, which is totally understandable.
My respect for these two siblings of heart.
Thanks to you all for your ongoing endeavours for awareness for fostercare and adoption.
Much love 🥰
I just got licensed along with my husband. I’m so thankful for what ALEX said at the end of the video. It’s really what I needed to hear. We’ve been doing respite care while we wait for a placement and it has been very difficult. What we’ve seen and experienced so far made me question getting licensed and having a more permanent placement. But Alex’s comment was healing to my soul.
I thank goodness for things like RUclips because it has given so many kids in foster care or who are going through adoption a platform to share their stories unflitered. People on the outside tend to just paint this rosy picture that, oh, kids are fine if they're in foster care, but for a lot of kids, it takes such an emotional toll or it's hell with people out there who take advantage of the system and don't actually care about the kids at all. As adults, we're supposed to protect kids, and give them love or at the very least, show kindness, and make them feel safe even if they aren't ours biologically. I hope this video really helps someone chose the path of adoption/foster care, or let's them see as a caregiver what maybe they need to be more aware of.
I wish there were more loving families out there that would open their homes for kids in the foster system... it hurts my heart that there are so many in just one state!!! My husband and I are both 60 with serious medical issues, otherwise we would probably become foster parents, and I am sure these kids go through so much having to go through changing what home they live in, whether or not they like the foster homes they go to, how they are treated in those homes... the fact that you not only are a foster family, but usually adopt the kids you foster, just makes my heart happy that you care so much about all of these kids and do treat them like they are your own flesh and blood. God has certainly blessed you and your family for the love and compassion you give to all of your kids.... I don't know if there are "perfect parents" in this world.... but I do know that you would be way up on the top of the list and great examples of what parents SHOULD BE!! Thank you Crystal and Aaron... for being the best parents for these kids and teaching them the life skills they need to become successful when they are ready to move out into the world... they are very fortunate to learn those skills while they are growing up.... I was never taught how to cook, balance a checkbook, learn about investments, teaching them responsibility and accountability, honesty... I joined the military, got out after getting divorced after giving birth to our son (he cheated on me and left us), and struggled as a single parent for years (I got married for the 2nd time when my son was 9)... your kids do know how blessed they truly are after living in the foster care system, I hope they open their homes to other kids in the foster care system when they are old enough to do so! I love watching your channel.... it makes me happy to see a family who truly cares about one another!
Hannah, it must be hard if people take your stuff and so now when you first go into your home crystal I think now she probably feels like she is being treated properly foster care can be hard even coming out of a group home and then starting their life out fresh and now Hannah and Alex feel like their parent's crystal and Arron understand coming out of a group home or foster care can be hard now they feel like their with actual parents crystal you are an amazing mother I hope that I get to meet you guys I am fan I live in Hawaii I do online college and graduated this year from hawaii community college and now working toward my batchlers degree
How could anyone have kids then give them up! That is sick and disgusting the child didn't ask to be born. in this world If you can't be a mother or father and raise your kids then do not have them keep you dam legs closed or get a Chastity Belt or take a pill. Hannah 💋❤you are a GEM! I feel you guys don't trust people or very emotional around people and that's very understandable in your guys situation and pass I can see it in both of your eyes.still to this day. Alex❤you guys have the best Family now. I couldn't imagine what you guys when through in those group homes. A lot of kids live on the streets instead in the group homes they can be very dangerous to live in. GOD BLESS ALL THESE KIDS IN GROUP HOMES AND FOSTER CARE. YOU guys really are the lucky ones to have a mother and father now who loves them so much. Crystal and Aaron yo guys are the real hero's to all these kids. So sad💋💋💋💋💋. ❤❤❤❤❤❤💋❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ My prayer go out to all of you
I lived in multiple group homes two. It was sadly not the best experience. Only one out of a handful was good. In two particular we were treated like less then instead of equals. Thank you for sharing your stories!
i was in foster care from the age of 7/1/2 and they just kept moving me to diffrent foster homes and level 14s group and homes ,I felt that the help to get in a prement place social worker told them that i was to late for help so i stayed intell i was 19years old and then kicked out and i was on the streets to live by my self ...
i wish i was adopted to a famliy that knows about my disableys
I’ve volunteered helping repaint and redo the backyard at a boys group home of teenage boys. The group home could take 6 boys. In lots of ways it was a structured atmosphere, but it’s also a job. Most of these kids are taken out of their homes for a reason for example the parents are neglectful due to drug addiction, they are going to jail for a crime they committed and more. Poor parenting seems to be the norm which means the kids are called names, starved as a parent chooses to feed their drug habit vs feed their kids.
I also went to a camp for kids 7-11 and they were jaded and had trauma due to their upbringing which could be being a dangerous home with their parents and then going from home to home. In some cases kids get moved from places to place because their parents are committing crimes after they get out of jail in a different county, so then the child is moved to that county. It’s so complicated.
I also painted and redecorated our local Department of Children and Family services office. The in take room had to work from a new born to an 17 year old. I created zones as they didn’t really have a teen space prior to our team coming. When kids stay the night in the office it’s because they can’t find foster care homes to place them in. It’s a horrible process and their case worker stays the night with them. I added a futon so they had a sofa area or watch tv and a bed to sleep in. Most of the budgets go to training. There’s just not enough money and care going towards kids in foster care. You can tell by Hannah face that it was traumatic for her and probably why she doesn’t remember a lot of it. I hope after having had her do this interview you get here some counseling.
I know it is important to get the information out about group homes and foster care. I just hate to see the looks on their faces when they talk about it. Bringing up all of the hard times. I just want to grab them and hug them.
I agree. I know she had good intentions and many people found this episode educational. However, I'm a bit upset that she had these young adults share a very painful and vulnerable period in their lives. From the looks on their faces I can't help to think they would rather not have had this conversation but did it for Crystal. I'm probably wrong but I was in tears seeing Hannah & Alex hurting.
Ya, I won’t say which brand I have due to respect..but I have 2 solar panel batteries. I’m going to get another for just the fridge. They are good to have in emergency. I live in the high desert in calif.
Crystal, Aaron I did speaking engagements with foster children about how to handle child abuse. They were in spcappi! I loved doing this.
Honestly watching your channel made me want to be more involved with foster care and helped me realize I want to get a masters in social work. About a month ago I actually started working in a group home and it’s been so difficult bc some of the staff treat the people in my home so disrespectfully. I love that I am able to be one of the staff that is in this position for the right reasons but mannn being able to read these kids cases is so emotionally taxing. It really hurts my hear how many people are being mistreated prior to a group home and then get placed in a group home that still isn’t beneficial for them. So glad your kids have you because so many of them don’t have people who love them and want to do right by them!
I worked in a RTF (residential treatment facility), they would do trainings on how we where not a "parent role" we where staff. If you got close to a kid and bonded you would be warned and told you would be moved. I did not stay there long.
Thanks for sharing this, it's a real eye-opener. I know I've wanted to foster/adopt for a long time, hopefully in next few years. I know there are certain challenges but I want to be able to provide a loving home to them. I also am planning to do this as a single woman but hopefully I can give a forever home to some of these kids in foster care.
Thank you for sharing this hard part their life. There are very resilience.
I love watching your videos. I wish I was young enough to adopt. Thank you for sharing that generator. I'm living with my mom she does dialysis every night and my stepdad needs a machine for oxygen at night. I live in California where we are getting blackouts. It scares me. My mom does her dialysis at home. I don't have a lot of money so I'm hoping this generator is it so pricey as the other ones. If you one less thing off my stress list. I love you guys and I love what you do for these kids you have a beautiful family. ❤️🙏
at least crystal now your kids as they are already grown up and now crystal probualy now you are actually understanding parents so it can be hard and now Hannah and Alex probably feel like they are being treated now respectfully because of their parents crystal and Arron are now kind loving parents that treat them the way they wanted to be treated
A couple of things I’m still curious about-
Who handles parent/teacher conferences if the child is in a group home? Who signs permissions slips for the child, or who does the school contact if the child is in trouble? What were the holidays like in a group home and does the group home respect dietary restrictions?
The legal guardian which would be a staff member like one of the supervisors.
It really hurts that Hannah & Alex had some issues in their lives show your love
My mother passed from cancer when I was 2. Then my father was an abusive addict so I got both with my grandparents who ended up also being abusive..school was my only escape..until in the 8th grade I started getting bullied... it made life nearly impossible to survive at that point. I actually ran away at 17. I am now 21 have 2 kids own a house and I'm married. I'm in a good place now and see a therapist but I agree kids need to be nice to other kids in school because u don't know what goes on at home. My grandparents had a nice home..but it wasn't a safe home. The system over looked me because my home looked nice... school was my sanctuary until some.mean kids took that from me.