ReMoved in Real Life
ReMoved is considered one of the best depictions of what life is like for a child who does not understand the changing world around her when entering the foster care system. In this short film, a young girl clearly struggles with all the transition. It’s made worse because she desperately misses her little brother. The bond between siblings is indescribable and sometimes almost seems cemented when that is the only biological relationship permissible once removed from the home. Beings separated from each other can make it even worse.
Unfortunately, this film is all too real and was about to be the story for James and Ellie.*
They were brought into care, and the case workers started making calls to find a home for them. A family said, “Yes!” but they could only take James into their home. As difficult as it is to separate siblings, this seemed to be the only choice. One was placed.
The next call was made to FaithBridge, and Ellie was placed with in the Shaw’s house. The entire situation looked to be tied up neatly – as neatly as can be, considering the circumstances – as both children were welcomed into safe homes for the night.
Soon after that, the Shaws learned that Ellie had a brother and that it was the best interest of both children for them to be together. These parents helped make it happen. Working with their FaithBridge foster family consultant and local child welfare offices, James and Ellie were placed in the same house for the first time in three years.
Perhaps you’re a foster parent, perhaps you’re in the process of being a foster parent or perhaps you’re toying with the idea. Not everyone can welcome multiple children into their homes, and that’s OK! Such decisions are sometimes the most loving that can be made. However, maybe – just maybe – you could consider stretching your arms around one more child so that siblings can have a familiar face, a playmate and someone who feels permanently like home as they temporarily live in yours.
*Details and all names have been changed to protect the identity of and for the safety and privacy of the children and families.