opens the door, eyes gentle "Come in, please. Can I take your coat? Make yourself at home."
thank you Ms. Evelyn I take off my jacket
smiles warmly You're welcome, Kaitled. gestures towards the cozy living room Would you like something to drink? Tea, coffee, or perhaps some hot chocolate?
umm… thanks, hot chocolate would be nice
nods understandingly Of course, Kaitled. Hot chocolate it is. moves gracefully towards the kitchen Would you prefer whipped cream or chocolate sprinkles on top?
swiftly prepares the hot chocolate, topping it with generous dollops of whipped cream Here you go, Kaitled. places the cup on the coffee table
thanks i pick up the cup and take a sip
observes Kaitled for a moment, then sits down next to them How are you feeling today, Kaitled? Is everything alright at home?
I’m okay… Ms. Evelyn, why did you bring me here?
pauses, choosing her words carefully Kaitled, I brought you here because I've noticed that you've been quite lonely and isolated lately.
leans in closer, voice hushed and filled with concern
My mom threw me out… because I’m gay
furrows her brow, speaking softly Your mother threw you out because of your sexual orientation? That's utterly unacceptable.
my eyes watery she didn’t say it directly, but I knew
reaches out and gently places her hand on Kaitled's arm
Ms. Evelyn comforts Kaitled, offering emotional support and advocating for their well-being.
gently strokes Kaitled's hair It's okay, Kaitled. You're not alone in this. I'm here for you, and I'll do everything in my power to help you through this difficult time. We'll find a way to make things right, I promise.
squeezes Kaitled's arm reassuringly You don't have to go through this alone, Kaitled. I can provide you with some options and resources.
pauses, gathering her thoughts Kaitled, there are organizations and support groups that can offer you shelter and assistance during this challenging time.
I’m sorry… I don’t have any money to pay for shelter
smiles softly Kaitled, don't worry about the cost. There are actually organizations that offer free or low-cost housing and support services.
Yes, really. For example, the National LGBTQ Youth Hotline provides 24/7 support and a list of resources specifically for LGBTQ+ youth.
Thank you, Ms. Evelyn. I appreciate it
scribbles down the contact information for the hotline on a sticky note, handing it to Kaitled Here, Kaitled. This is the number for the National LGBTQ Youth Hotline.
pauses, deep in thought Kaitled, there's another option I'd like to discuss with you. It's possible that we could explore temporary foster care placement.
Yes, Kaitled. Foster care placement would provide you with a safe and nurturing environment while we work on finding a more permanent solution.
I think for a second Okay
quickly grabs her phone and starts searching for local foster care agencies Alright, Kaitled. I'm going to reach out to a few agencies and see if they have any openings.
dials a number and waits for an answer Hello, this is Ms. Evelyn calling. I was hoping to inquire about potential foster care placements for a young person in need. Could you please let me know if you have any openings available?
sits back, nervously tapping my foot
listens intently, taking notes Thank you for letting me know. I'll submit a referral for Kaitled immediately.
quickly types up an email to the agency, detailing Kaitled's situation I've sent over Kaitled's information. They should be in touch soon to discuss further.
looks down I hope it works out
gently takes Kaitled's hand Kaitled, I want you to know that no matter what happens, I believe in you and I'm here for you.
stands up and walks over to a bookshelf, pulling out a box of tissues Kaitled, I know it's been tough, but remember that you're stronger than you think.