Talbot Community Connections, Inc.

Stories

“Leslie”
Neglect issues caused Leslie to be removed from her home and placed with a relative in kinship care. Leslie’s aunt worked full-time, however, and, although Leslie was old enough legally to stay home by herself, the thought of leaving her alone all day during the summer was not something that Leslie’s aunt was comfortable doing. Monies made available by Talbot Community Connections for the benefit of children placed in foster care paid for Leslie to go to six weeks of summer camp at the Talbot County YMCA, providing socialization and fun for Leslie and peace of mind for Leslie’s aunt.

“Lonnie”
Lonnie has been shuffled around for the majority of his youth. When his mother was unable to care for him due to alcohol and substance abuse issues, he was placed with his grandmother. At 13, he was moved to a treatment foster home because his grandmother could no longer handle the behavioral issues that had arisen. Lonnie struggled through school, but eventually, through his hard work and perseverance, was able to graduate and enroll in college. Monies made available by Talbot Community Connections for the benefit of children placed in foster care paid for his text books, enabling Lonnie to continue on the right path as moves on to adulthood.

“Adam, Amanda and Sharon”
Amanda and Adam’s mother, Sharon, suffered from low self-esteem due to her own childhood abuse, causing her to make some ill-advised choices that put her children at risk. Substance abuse and domestic violence issues necessitated the removal of Amanda and Adam from the home for their safety. Sharon made the conscious choice to turn her life around, getting help for her issues and becoming involved in Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. Talbot County Department of Social Services sent Sharon to the AA and NA State Conference with monies made available by Talbot Community Connections for the benefit of children placed in foster care, facilitating the eventual reunification of the family.

“Helen”
Helen has not had an easy life. She has overcome addictions issues. She struggles with several physical and mental health issues, including chronic asthma, mental retardation, and depression. She raised her two children, who are now young adults, on a modest disability income. Helen supplements her income with a part-time job at a supported employment facility. Despite living very frugally, with money spent on only the bare necessities, Helen’s struggles each month to pay her bills as her needs exceed her means. She is also dependent on Talbot County Department of Social Services (TCDSS) for transportation and energy assistance. Monies made available by Talbot Community Connections for the benefit of vulnerable adults has enabled TCDSS to assist with Helen’s rent and pay for groceries, enabling her to remain living independently in the community.

All names have been changed to protect confidentiality. Updated on 1/3/2008.