A foster parent’s unwavering dedication | Unsung Heroes

Seattle’s Child is proud to partner with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families Strengthening Families Washington to honor outstanding caregivers doing important work on behalf of children. Throughout February, we’ll introduce you to Unsung Heroes from around the state. Enjoy their stories. 

Jennifer Christensen, Arlington

I can think of no one who fits the description of an Unsung Hero more than Ms. Jennifer Christensen. She is an exceptional, selfless foster parent who has dedicated the past six years to advocating for and supporting her foster child. She has done what 6 previous placements could not. Through patience, kindness, humor, and firm boundaries, she has provided the consistency and protection her foster child has needed to become a stable, integrated member of her family, school, and community.

Under her guidance, her foster child is thriving to the point she is on the path to becoming a permanent member of the Christensen family. Ms. Christensen has modeled resilience in so many ways. She has built an extensive support network for her foster child which includes teachers, social services, her CASA, therapists, and specialists. She has spent countless hours researching diagnoses and advocating for the child’s needs, even to the point of risking her own job to ensure proper educational opportunities.

She has also been instrumental in securing the least restrictive educational environment to allow her foster child the room and encouragement to develop her academic abilities. Despite damage to her home, Ms. Christensen has invested time and money to build a safe and stable environment to meet her foster child’s needs. Through setbacks and physical injuries, Ms. Christensen has shown remarkable, grace and empathy, while continually modeling strength and commitment. Ms. Christensen is a personal inspiration to me and a true Unsung Hero who is deserving of our recognition and gratitude.

— Nominator: Garnet Parish

NOTE: Seattle’s Child is running these Unsung Heroes stories unedited, as written by the people who nominated them, in keeping with the DCYF Unsung Hero process.

More Unsung Heroes:

Chelaine Guzman: A story of recovery, resilience & reunification

Aura Neyra: A grandma’s commitment to kinship care 

Laden Ali: Inspiring mom of 5 always supports other parents