“It’s hard to describe how much the people at Hanna have done for me. I know that no matter where life takes me, I have people who believe in me.” – Chris, Hanna Residential Foster Youth
I grew up in San Francisco, but my journey has taken me far from home. At just seven, I left Sacramento, and by 13, I was entering foster care, eventually landing in a group home in Los Angeles. Life wasn’t easy, with every move a reminder of how hard it was to find stability. There were highs and lows, but I have no regrets; each experience has shaped who I am today.
When things got complicated with my family, I went to live with my dad. To everyone else, it looked like I was doing well, but the reality was different. My social worker suggested Hanna Center, and although I didn’t know what to expect, I knew I needed a place where I could build a foundation—and Hanna seemed like it might be the right fit.
The Support I Needed
Arriving at Hanna was a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. I had read about their programs—cooking with students, building independent living skills, and creating a community. I wanted all of that, but it took time to adjust. What I found, though, was a level of independence I hadn’t experienced before. I could work a part-time job, make friends, and have the space to start thinking about my future.
For the first time in years, I felt like I belonged in school. I attend Creekside, a place that’s become one of my favorite parts of life at Hanna. Before coming here, I hadn’t been in school consistently since elementary school, and I was nervous about going back. But the teachers welcomed me with open arms. They encouraged me to try new things, like writing. When a short story I wrote in English was printed and shared, it felt like a huge achievement.
A Circle of Support and Stability
It’s hard to describe how much the people at Hanna have done for me. I’ve been fortunate to have a CASA worker who’s been by my side through tough times, even visiting me in San Francisco. Miss Goodwin and others at Hanna have become my go-to team, the people I can trust. I know that no matter where life takes me, I have people who believe in me.
Looking ahead, I have options. While I don’t know exactly where I’ll end up, I feel ready to explore paths like living at the Ruth House or even moving to San Diego. I want to keep learning and growing, whether through writing, crocheting, or maybe going to college someday.
With your support this holiday season, we can continue to Light the Way for young people like Chris, giving them a stable environment, essential services, and a community that feels like family.
