Emma Patterson, an 88-year-old woman from Montgomery County, Maryland, found herself in a new chapter of her life in the ‘80s after her marriage ended. With no career to fall back on, she began caring for children, a role that ultimately led her to become one of the longest-serving foster parents in the county. Over the past four decades, Patterson has fostered more than 40 children, ranging from newborns to teenage parents and their babies. Despite the challenges and modest financial compensation that comes with fostering, she is proud of the fact that all of her children have turned out to be “absolutely fantastic.”
Patterson’s journey into foster parenting began when her own children started bringing their friends home who were not being properly taken care of. Wanting to help, she provided these children with food and a place to stay, eventually deciding to formally become a foster parent. Her biological children have since grown up to become successful individuals, a testament to the parenting approach she took with all the children she has fostered. Patterson believes that in foster parenting, the focus should be on the parenting aspect rather than just the “foster” part, emphasizing the need to be present and supportive for the children who have likely experienced trauma in their lives.
Growing up in a loving family herself, Patterson understood the importance of creating a nurturing environment for her foster children. She believes that the love, care, and kindness shown to a child can make a significant impact on their lives. For Patterson, fostering children has been a gift and an honor, one that she cherishes deeply. Despite the challenges and emotional investment required, she has found great fulfillment in providing a loving home to children in need.
As she nears retirement, Patterson reflects on her decades-long journey as a foster parent with gratitude and pride. Her commitment to the well-being and growth of each child she has cared for has not gone unnoticed, as Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich recently presented her with an award in recognition of her service. While the accolades are appreciated, Patterson’s true reward lies in the success and happiness of the children she has fostered over the years. With one teenager graduating from high school this year, Patterson is preparing to step back from fostering, knowing that she has made a positive impact on the lives of many children in her community.
Despite the challenges and the emotional toll that comes with fostering, Patterson remains grateful for the opportunity to care for so many children over the years. Her dedication to providing a loving and stable home for those in need has left a lasting impact on the children she has fostered. As she looks ahead to retirement, Patterson can take pride in knowing that she has made a difference in the lives of countless children, helping them to overcome adversity and grow into confident and successful individuals. Emma Patterson’s legacy as a foster parent in Montgomery County will continue to inspire others to open their hearts and homes to children in need.
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