May is National Foster Care Month and as someone who grew up in foster homes for a few years, I wanted to bring awareness to this very important and personal topic.
Being in foster care was a difficult time in my life, but thankfully, it also helped fuel my passion for food as medicine. This later led me to become a sports nutritionist and teach others the importance nutrition plays in living our best lives. While my foster years seem like a lifetime ago, two memories remain vivid...
The first is that I wasn’t given a lunchbox or lunch money for school. If I wanted to eat, the school provided me with a bright pink punch card (for children on welfare or in the system). Between the unmistakable color and distinct sound of the hole puncher, it was impossible to go unnoticed. So, to avoid questions, rumors, and bullying, I simply didn’t eat lunch or ate a candy bar. This caused problems focusing in class, health issues, and even more shame and embarrassment.
The second memory is a much happier one! My first foster mom taught me how to make lemon meringue pie. While it may not have been the healthiest option, it was a fun experience that sparked my curiosity around the science behind food. There was something fascinating about liquid egg whites turning into fluffy white peaks of meringue when whipped long enough. If you haven’t tried this with your kids I highly recommend it… you might even score some cool points. :)
Fast forward to today! I built Creation Nation to offer healthier, fresh protein bars without all the sugars, additives, preservatives, and unhealthy oils. I wanted people to be empowered to easily create their own no-bake bars at home, with superior ingredients and affordability. Plus, I really hoped families could create impactful memories in the kitchen like I had growing up.
I love that one of my company’s first retail partners, Thrive Market, has a social mission to give back to families in need, and make healthy living accessible & affordable for everyone. When you buy a Thrive Market membership, you’re also donating one. Incredible, right?!
With almost 500,000 kids in the foster system, please consider some of these resources and other ways you can help...
Watch the new HBO documentary "Foster", and find out how to become a Mentor, Court Advocate, or Foster Parent at HBO's https://fostermore.org.
Sesame Street recently debuted Karli, a Muppet in foster care. You can learn more about their supportive initiatives here:
https://www.goodnewsnetwork.org/sesame-street-debuts-new-foster-care-muppet/
Support organizations like @kidalliance @togetherwerise and @thefosternation who help in numerous ways from legal support to scholarships.
Thank you to all those who are caring for and protecting foster children! Many wouldn't be where they are without your support!
XO
Karen Nation
