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A Heart for Healing: Mildred Bryant's Journey as a Therapeutic Foster Parent


For over a decade, Mildred Bryant has been a steadfast advocate for children in need, providing a safe and loving home as a licensed foster parent. Since 2021, she has partnered with Boys Town North Florida’s Foster Family Services program as a Therapeutic Foster Parent, opening her heart and home to eight children over the years.

Fostering has always been a calling for Mildred. She attributes her dedication to her deeply rooted desire to help others, saying, “I’ve always had a heart for caring and supporting those in need.” When asked what advice she would offer to those considering fostering, she emphasized the importance of community. “Relying on other parents, foster families, teachers and loved ones is crucial. No one fosters alone—you need support.”

Mildred credits Boys Town’s training and resources with transforming both her approach to parenting and the lives of the children she fosters. She shared that what may seem like negative behavior is often a child’s way of expressing unmet needs or trauma. Through extensive training, she has gained valuable skills in effective communication, understanding trauma responses and tailoring care to each child’s unique developmental needs. These strategies, she explains, are essential to fostering success.

One of the most defining moments of her journey came this year. Since May 2023, Mildred has been fostering a young boy, and in March 2025, she finalized his adoption! Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “I want every child to feel safe. Fostering is incredibly rewarding, but it also requires deep self-awareness. We all have something to heal from, and that motivates me to provide a space where children can find peace. Learning new skills and strategies through Boys Town helps me ensure that my home remains a place of healing.”

Boys Town North Florida proudly congratulates the Bryant family on this incredible milestone. Foster Family Services remains committed to partnering with the Tallahassee community to ensure children have safe, loving homes where they can thrive.