I am not a fan of interest groups ranting against Hollywood.  Nearly every film has something to offend someone, and I’m not sure it’s a good use of time to bring our personal offenses to the world’s attention.  BUT I have to admit it sets my spine on edge every time I drive past a poster for the new movie ‘Orphan.’  My problem is not that Hollywood is willing to exploit the stereotype of the most defenseless members of society to make an extra buck.  My problem is that the writers can sell this movie because it plays into a stereotype that already exists, and it breaks my heart.  The writers don’t even have to work hard to convince us that orphans are dangerous.  In less than 30 seconds, they convince us to fear those we don’t know, even if the stranger is a nine year old girl.

The hard truth is these stereotypes exist because it is easier on our conscience to blame innocent children than to step up to the plate and admit our own failing.  Emancipated foster youth (those who leave the system never finding a permanent home) struggle to assimilate into society because we have told them they are not welcome.  Their parents reject them, the system passes them from one group home to another until they turn 18, when they are promptly kicked to the curb.  Many find themselves in trouble either from ignorance or desperation, and we shake our heads disapprovingly.

The orphan becomes the sacrificial lamb to our thirst for entertainment because story lines about malicious orphans are far more exciting than stories of a disinterested public willing to passively abandon tens of thousands of children every year.

Of course, it’s not all bleak.  At Child S.H.A.R.E., our families stand in the gap.  Day by day, one child at a time, these families love children back to life.  Everyday they prove a child who is loved can love.  A child who is loved can succeed.  A child who is loved overcomes the stereotype.

I firmly believe there are no unwanted children, only unfound families.  To families who have orphans in their homes, thank you.  To families who have yet to take the challenge, let me encourage you.  You can be the champion of the forgotten and maligned.  You can be the love that transforms a generation.

I was recently reminded of the significance of small gestures of kindness when a Child S.H.A.R.E. family related a story about their most recent placement. When a child is removed from his biological family and placed in foster care, he often leaves with little more than the clothes on his back.

Child S.H.A.R.E. delivers a welcome basket to each child placed in a Child S.H.A.R.E. home. This gift helps foster children transition into the home. Since Child S.H.A.R.E. deliver hundreds of baskets each year, it is easy to forget how significant this small act can be for a child in transition.

Last month, “Matthew” was welcomed into a Child S.H.A.R.E. home and a welcome basket was delivered.The welcome items were in a large plastic container with the child’s name written on the lid. When “Matthew” saw the lid with his name on it he was thrilled, and he carried the lid all around the house showing it to everyone. He was so proud to have something with his name on it.

Once the family was shown the lid, “Matthew’s” foster mom asked him if he’d go ahead and take his welcome basket up to his room. His eyes grew wide, and he exclaimed, “You mean the whole thing is for me?”

These baskets are composed of simple things. They include things you and I think of as routine: toiletries, school supplies, small toys, a blanket…but for these kids welcome baskets provide a box of normal. I am so proud to be part of an organization that helps children find hope through simple acts of kindness.