Fort Worth Duo Advocate for More Resources for Foster Children

Former foster children and advocates asked state lawmakers on Wednesday for more support for children who are aging outside the system.

Right now, many are left without the resources to take care of themselves as they are too old for the system.

Mike Guinn, a housing coach for foster children preparing for adulthood, gave a touching testimony to the State House Appropriations Committee.

“I was able to help him get an apartment, but he struggled. He struggled with anger issues, which led to numerous confrontations that landed him in prison and mental hospitals,” he said.

Guinn opened up about his relationship with 25-year-old Dashaun Palmer.

“Personally, I feel special. It makes me feel wanted and it would be great to see other young people feel the same way,” he said.

Guinn’s appearance at the State Capitol was a call for more funding for programs such as the nonprofit Transitional Resource Action Center, which paved the way for Palmer’s independence, albeit a delayed one. At 21, he was not yet ready for an independent life.

“I was nervous,” he said. “I didn’t know what was going on. So, like the support system, they gave me everything, bus tickets, the opportunity to find a job and guide me on the career path that I’m on, it was a blessing. “

If Guinn’s testimony is startling, it may be because he is also a lyricist, poet, and spoken word artist.

“We try to tailor our personalized approach to whatever they need. We have rhythm and lyrics with him,” he said. “Someone else might love the culinary arts. We find a way to try to reach them wherever they are.”

Palmer didn’t budge.

When FOX 4 asked him to talk a bit about his newfound passion for lyrics, he decided to pursue a career as a rap artist. He also dreams of becoming a meteorologist.

“Honestly, I don’t know where I would be without this program,” he said.

The House Appropriations Committee heard testimony from a number of people about a possible increase in funding for programs like the one that helped Palmer. The decision has not yet been made.

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