When 14-year-old Anela got into Tracy Lewis’ van, she carried everything she owned in a single garbage bag. She didn’t say much, but her silence showed how scared and hurt she was. She had been moved from home to home, never feeling like she truly belonged.
Tracy saw the sadness in Anela’s eyes. She felt a deep concern for this young girl who had been through so much. Tracy quietly prayed for strength and guidance. She remembered a Bible verse from Isaiah 41:
“Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.”
With faith in her heart, Tracy welcomed Anela into her home. It was her family’s first time being foster parents through Nā ‘Ohana Pulāma, a program at Catholic Charities Hawai‘i. This program helps children and teens ages 3 to 17 who have emotional or behavioral challenges. It places them in caring homes on O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island and uses a special method called the Teaching-Family Model, which helps kids heal from trauma.
Tracy and her family gave Anela more than just a place to stay. They gave her kindness, support, and a safe space to grow. Catholic Charities Hawai‘i believes every child deserves love, respect, and a place to call home—and Tracy’s family lived out that belief every day.
Anela’s healing took time. She had to learn how to trust again and believe she was worthy of love. Slowly, through simple things like family dinners, late-night talks, and birthday celebrations, she began to feel what it meant to be part of a family.
Tracy watched as Anela began to blossom. The quiet, angry girl who once held her life in a trash bag was becoming a strong, hopeful young woman.
