Atlanta Teen Advocates For Children In Foster Care

                                                ————————–

Freedom Wright

Place of Residence: Atlanta

Why She’s a Game Changer: As a former foster child, Wright knows what it’s like to go without. She understands that the next meal, new clothes, love, and warmth aren’t guaranteed facts of life for everyone.

SEE ALSO: Public Health Advocate Fights To Increase HIV/AIDS Awareness

Luckily, this outgoing 17-year-old was adopted when she was 4 years old, but it was a rough ride.

By the time she was four, Wright had been moved four times.

In 2011, half of the kids entering foster care in this country were children of color. African Americans make up 27 percent of the foster care population despite Blacks making up only 13 percent of the country’s population.

But Wright has decided to reach back and help kids who were once in her position.

Wright hosts “Free Your Mind” backpack drives for foster children. And raising awareness about older kids in foster care is also part of her effort to give back. The enterprising teen also speaks to community groups about her experience in foster care.

When she arrived at the home of the woman who would become her mother, all of her possessions were in a garbage bag, said Wright.

“I remember bouncing from house to house,” said Wright. “You never knew where your next meal or set of clothes were going to come from.”