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Mother opens heart and home to children in need

Trisha Benton

Randolph Times

RANDOLPH — Michelle Greene is a mom of two but depending on the given day — or even hour — she’s a mother figure for many more.

The Randolph woman, along with her husband, Kyle, have opened up their home and hearts to foster children for the last four years. In that time, the Greenes have welcomed into their family 15 different children. They have cared for more than 60 as part of respite for other foster families in the area.

Currently, their household contains their biological children, Alina, 12, and Kalex, 5, and also their five foster children.

The Greenes started talking about becoming foster parents when they were both in college and dating.

“We knew there was a need for foster parents and wanted to help the kids and their parents,” she said. “Foster care is not only about the kids but it’s also about helping the parents succeed as well.”

The first year of fostering saw the Greene family adding kids ranging from 17 to 3.

“We had to learn how to navigate parenting of all ages really fast,” Michelle said.

Oftentimes, a foster placement comes without much notice or even in the middle of the night, and usually without much information about the child or the situation they’re coming from. Children frequently have no belongings.

“Every situation is different so we have to always be ready when we have beds open for placement,” Michelle said.

The Greenes added smoke detectors, beds, and new exits to their home, and stocked up on toiletries and every size of clothing to prepare for the new venture.

They underwent training and also talked to their children about what fostering means and that the kids coming in would not stay with them forever.

To say they underwent a big adjustment would be a big understatement.

“If it’s a baby, all seven become master parents overnight,” Michelle said. “If they are older, the kids love it as the older kids can jump high on the trampoline and make the younger kids fly like birds. If they are about the same age, there is lots of arguing and toys being thrown, but they do like having someone their own age to play with.”

Once she learns of the reason a child was removed from their previous home, Michelle said she’ll often make accommodations to make that child feel safe.

For example, if the child has a history of parents who abused alcohol, the Greenes will get rid of all alcohol in the home. Sometimes foster kids need extra reassurance and structure so Michelle will make sure the child knows the schedule and where she is at all times.

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