Breall entered Boys Town North Florida’s Foster Family Services program in July 2020. At the time, she was navigating significant trauma and displaying intense behaviors, including aggression toward herself, peers and adults. She had no contact with her birth siblings and moved through several therapeutic foster homes over the years.
In 2023, Breall was placed in what was hoped to be an adoptive home. However, as her trauma responses escalated, the placement could not continue and Breall once again found herself in transition.
Everything changed the day she went to stay with the Lara family, licensed therapeutic foster parents through Boys Town North Florida, who were providing respite for her then‑current placement. From the very first day, the Laras felt a connection. They knew Breall was meant to be part of their family.
Over the next year, Breall flourished in their home. Her aggressive behaviors decreased, her school performance improved and she began participating in extracurricular activities. With the support of the Lara family, she learned essential life skills and found healthy ways to express her emotions. She even began learning the martial arts, giving her a safe and empowering outlet to process anger and trauma.
As time passed, Breall began thriving at school, at home and in her relationships. She reconnected with her birth siblings and embraced her role as a big sister to the younger children in the Lara home. She truly became a member of the family.
On May 18, surrounded by her parents, family, her birth sister and Boys Town North Florida staff, Breall officially became a Lara. The courtroom was filled with joy and celebration!
Boys Town North Florida’s therapeutic foster care program is honored to celebrate Breall’s adoption and the Lara family’s unwavering commitment. Even more inspiring, Mr. and Mrs. Lara plan to remain licensed therapeutic foster parents and continue opening their home to children who need safety and healing.
Stories like Breall’s are possible because of families who open their hearts and homes. Boys Town North Florida is actively seeking more adults willing to provide the same safe, loving and life-changing environment for children in need.
If you feel called to learn more about fostering, please reach out today. Your home could be the place where a child begins to heal and thrive. Learn more about becoming a foster parent here.
