Tiffany's Story
Children need to feel loved and supported—safe and secure. That need is best met through a strong parent-child attachment. Sometimes, it may not be the actual parent, but another person who cares for the child in their home. EveryChild knows that a great match between a child and a Support Family begins with that bond.
Tiffany’s story is a perfect example. For most of her teenage years, home for Tiffany—who has cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability—was an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF). It wasn’t like a family where the outgoing, warm-hearted teen could have deep connections with a parent, but it was the only option available to her grandmother who could no longer care for Tiffany in her home.
EveryChild reached out to Tiffany and her grandmother to explore family-based alternatives. They agreed Tiffany would thrive living with a family. EveryChild found Carol—a special education teacher—who had worked with Tiffany before at a summer camp. EveryChild helped Carol become a Support Family and get connected to a Medicaid waiver provider organization. When Tiffany’s grandmother met Carol, the deal was sealed. She saw how Tiffany and Carol could have a very close bond.
Tiffany’s grandmother reports that Carol has opened up many experiences for her granddaughter.
“Carol is an absolute godsend,” says grandmother. “Tiffany gets to go places and do things. She absolutely loves Carol. It was a perfect match. I am so glad that EveryChild matched us together.”