What does foster mean?

“I was driving my 10 year old foster daughter to an event. In the car with us was my brand new 8 year old foster daughter. The 8 year old was attempting to figure our family out and asking the 10 year old if I was her "real mom." My sage 10 year old explains that I am her foster mom.

I smile at her in the rear view mirror.

She smiles back, leans in to the new child, and wisely explains, "foster just means love."

Thanks to our entire village for all the love and care you provide to foster families so that we can in turn love on these children, giving them a sense of love and belonging.”

—Submitted by an Oconee Foster Mom who has served hundreds of children short and long-term.