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4502 Centerview Dr, Suite 225 San Antonio, TX 78228
210-852-0220
THRU Project | Resources for Foster Youth
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    • OUR Mission & History
    • Our Programs
    • THRU Board of Directors
    • THRU Staff
    • Careers
    • 2022 Annual Report
  • YOUTH
    • Apply to receive a mentor!
    • Housing Programs
      • Next Step Housing: Vocational Program
      • College Housing Program
    • Supervised Independent Living
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    • Cell Phone Program
    • Youth Resources >>>
      • DFPS PALS Benefits
      • Jobs & Employment
    • Pass to Success- Bus Pass
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THRU Project’s First Poetry Contest

Homepage All THRU Project's First Poetry Contest

THRU Project’s First Poetry Contest

Alexis Lara
May 26, 2022
All

THRU Project’s inaugural poetry contest, held in memory of local journalist Paula Price, took place on April 14th at the beautiful Eye of the Beholder Art Gallery on the city’s east side. Twenty poems were submitted by current and former foster youth. The three winning poets were Heidi Leal, Alizaha Gonzales and Melanie Gonzales. Melanie’s poem, which reflects on how her love for her young son has changed her life, is shared below.

“Home at Last”

Melanie Gonzales

Growing up I thought I would have a picture-perfect family but that wasn’t the case.

I grew up in foster homes and group homes and was constantly replaced.

I was surrounded by groups of children, different age, race, and ethnicity.

All this moving around and I never had no stability.

No family visits, no hugs, or kisses.

I felt so abandoned why didn’t anyone listen.

So many years I wish I had a normal childhood like other kids my age I was so lonely and unhappy I couldn’t explain.

Assigned therapist, caseworkers, attorneys the list can go on but who would really miss me if I was gone…

At 17 my life turned around for the better, I gave birth to my son, and I knew the first time I laid eyes on him I would love him forever.

He became my purpose in life the reason to get up every day and fight to achieve my goals, all along I never knew he was my home.

I will never let you go a day feeling how I felt all those years I will always be by your side and wipe your tears.

I will be all the things my mother couldn’t be for me, that is guaranteed.

I searched everywhere to find this unconditional love.

Thank you for blessing me to be your mother, my sweet Eli you are like no other.

I love you son.

Tags: Foster Youth Poetry Contest
Article by Alexis Lara

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Tuesday, 27, Jun
THRU Project Partners with Jewish Family Service & CASA to Form Project Launch
Friday, 23, Jun
THRU Project Receives Steve Wick Innovative Program Award for Youth Services
Monday, 15, May
Foster Care Awareness Month Informational Panel
Monday, 19, Sep
New Housing Program to Help Former Foster Youth Finish College
Monday, 27, Jun
THRU Project Joins Forces with NAMI to Provide Monthly Support Groups for Young Adults with a History of Foster Care
Thursday, 26, May
2022 Fashion Show was all about our Youth!

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