Matthew didn't talk that much when he first entered the foster care system a couple of years ago. His social workers say he wasn't talked to a lot growing up. But once Matthew was placed in a loving foster home, he quickly began to make remarkable progress. Now meet Matthew, who is looking for a forever family to nurture and embrace his outgoing spirit.
"I'm really funny. I like to laaaaugh!" exclaimed Matthew.
Nine-year-old Matthew likes a lot of things, such as basketball, golf and baseball. He also loves to talk, which is far cry from the boy he used to be.
"He actually wasn't very verbal when we first met him," said protective services worker Stephanie Gross.
This fourth-grader does have developmental delays. But now that he's in the care of a loving foster family that encourages him to talk and express himself, he is flourishing.
"He has blossomed so much from the time that he was placed in their home. His vocabulary has increased hugely. His behavior has improved. He's doing really well in that home, much better than everyone had anticipated," explained Gross.
The words are now pouring out, which just goes to show what love and stability can do for a child's self confidence and development.
Matthew is also receiving support services from San Diego County to help him thrive.
"So we would be looking for a special family that would be willing to take the time to be an advocate for him and to access services," Gross noted.
He's yearning for parental guidance and is eager to please.
"He makes friends really easily because he just jumps in and has conversations with kids and he likes to talk about fun things," Gross continued.
Matthew is truly delightful and deserves a forever family to cherish the hugs he's so happy to give.
"He's so adorable. When he sees you, his face just lights up, and it's just extremely endearing. It warms your heart. He's got such a great smile, it's very infectious," Gross added.
If you are interested in adopting from foster care or becoming a foster family, please call 1-877-I-ADOPT-U to learn more about getting started. The County of San Diego offers monthly orientation classes.
