Sunshine

COMMUNITY SERVICES
Serving families across Texas and New Mexico
Methodist Children’s Home serves children and families through 11 outreach offices. The stories featured on these pages demonstrate
the unique ways outreach offices are making a difference in the lives of children and families. Watch for additional stories in upcoming
issues of the Sunshine.
HOUSTON
Ladashia excels in school, athletics
Ladashia was voluntarily placed in foster care with MCH when she
was two months old, and she continues to reside with the same
foster family. During her time in care, she has flourished in all areas
of her life. Now a 10 th grader, Ladashia is a member of the A/B
honor roll and has earned varsity letters in track and volleyball.
As a member of the track team, she competes in the 100 meters,
pole vault, triple jump and relay, and she participated in a summer
track program. Ladashia was nominated by one of her teachers
to attend a community involvement program, where she received
hands-on experience with volunteering and raising awareness
about culture differences within the community. This opportunity
has enabled her to contribute 40 hours of community
service, which will enhance her college applications. “Ladashia
enjoys spending time with her family and friends,” said Nicole
Washington, MCH caseworker. “She is a well-rounded child who
receives lots of encouragement and love.”
ABILENE
Julie came into foster care in 2008 with her sister and
two brothers. She was the mother figure to her siblings
and had difficulty adjusting to the new role of being
an adolescent. Through therapy and the care provided
by her foster parents, Julie accepted her new role and
no longer tried to be the mother figure for her siblings.
During her time with MCH, Julie was embraced by
her community. Local residents “adopted” Julie and
helped her with various projects in 4H, UIL and band.
She graduated from high school in May, and she is now
attending community college through MCH.
CORPUS CHRISTI
Theresa, a single mother of three young children, was referred
to MCH by CPS in February to engage in parenting
classes. Theresa successfully completed the classes offered
by MCH. Staff members assisted Theresa with professional
clothing as she started a new job. She continues
to work and utilizes what she has learned with MCH in
her job and family. MCH helped Theresa develop a budget
and assisted her with partial payment for rent and
her electric bill. “Theresa is working hard to maintain a
safe and stable home environment for her children,” said
Marisol Gomez, MCH caseworker.
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Sunshine I Summer 2012