When asked why she became a foster parent 29 years ago, Marnie Jamison said, “I knew I could do this. I can make a difference.”

And make a difference she has. During that time, she has fostered or provided respite foster care to nearly 100 children. When LSSI piloted its Therapeutic Foster Care Program seven years ago, Jamison was one of the first foster parents in the program, a role she continues in today.

“I have always worked with children. I became a foster parent in my early 20s when I worked at a daycare center,” she said. “I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.”

LSSI’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program is an evidence-based program that places children with severe emotional and behavioral issues into therapeutic homes for nine to 12 months with the goal of a permanent placement home.

Jamison has witnessed the success of the program first-hand. A recent child she fostered dealt with housing instability and family mental health issues before coming to live with her. Despite that trauma, the child has made great strides. “She can grow and become something wonderful,” she said.

That positivity is part of her success as a foster parent. “I’ve seen such a difference with this program,” Jamison said. “When you give these kids a strong family base, it’s almost as if they can do anything.”

Photo Caption: Marnie Jamison and her husband Earbie Hill look at photos of the children she’s fostered over the years.

Learn more about becoming a Therapeutic Foster Care parent at LSSI.org/TFC.