Rita Gomex speaks out for foster children who have been 'left behind'

LETTERS: THE SUNDAY TIMES
Foster care system needs to be fixed
Contra Costa Times, August 29, 2007.

I recently met a young woman with a beautiful smile and a pleasant personality.

She is barely 18-years-old and is about four to five months pregnant. You would never know by talking to her that she was recently released from foster care.

I've been praying for some answers, and then on Aug. 10, I read Sara Steffens' article, "Fixes to foster care urged." The article mentions the legislation California Sen. Barbara Boxer has introduced, S.1512, and that former state Sen. John Burton is "urging bar association members to throw their weight behind the bill."

I urge the Times to continue to inform us community members of what we can do to fight for these foster-care children.

I feel the current foster-care system failed the above-mentioned young woman. She was released without finishing high school, pregnant and with no job skills.

Fortunately, she has an extended family that is trying to help. However, does that family have the tools needed to help her and her baby? What about the No Child Left Behind Act? What happens to these foster care children that are left behind?

Tell us what we can do to make sure this legislation gets passed!

Rita Gomez
Hercules