Client Story: Dorothy

Dorothy, 53, took in four children in December 2018 when the Florida Department of Children and Families removed the children from their mother’s care because of “an unfortunate situation.” Dorothy said she’s known the children, ages 6, 8, 10 and 11, since they were babies. They are her son’s best friend’s children. 

“I have always been in their lives,” Dorothy said. “To keep them together, I moved them into my home.” 

But Dorothy’s home was only large enough for her. She said DCF officials told her she needed a bigger place for the children if she was going to be their temporary guardian. Dorothy said the children’s mother has one year to meet DCF’s requirements to get the children back. If she doesn’t, Dorothy said she plans to adopt them. 

“I’d want someone to do this for me,” Dorothy said, noting she was raised by her paternal grandmother. “My mom died when I was 2, and I always wanted to be there for someone who needed help. I always vowed I’d be the best mother, and I’d help with kids.” 

Dorothy has four grown children of her own – ages 31, 32, 33 and 35. She also has three grandchildren. Dorothy found a larger place to live and needed help from The Mustard Seed to furnish it. 

“Sometimes people really need this (furniture), and it’s beautiful the people who donate it have a good heart,” she said. “If it wasn’t for The Mustard Seed, my kids wouldn’t have a bed to sleep on or a couch to sit on, so I really appreciate everything. It wasn’t an easy task, but it’s a doable task. The kids love me, and I love them.” 

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