Tuesday, May 6, 2008; Posted: 2:26 p.m. (CDT)
Twelve thousand pairs of shoes lined the south steps of the capitol. It represented the 12,000 foster children in our state.
Andree Reutlinger, a foster mom, says, "It really makes me sad that Oklahoma is so understaffed when it comes to foster families."
The Edmond woman has quite a story. She adopted two young boys and is also the biological mother of two.
As the display seems to go on and on, so does Reutlinger's generosity. In addition, she has fostered 25 kids.
She says, "One of the big statements I hope they make to the state of Oklahoma is the desperate need for good foster families. Bring these kids in and give them love."
Those at the event were also calling on lawmakers. They want a 25 percent increase for foster care in this year's state budget.
Foster parents say it's an expensive task but it's well worth it.
"I can't tell you the blessings. Unbelievable blessings," says Reutlinger.
The event was appropriately called "Heart and Soles." Senator Kathleen Wilcoxon who is a foster parent was on hand. Representative Susan Winchester was also at the event. Winchester is an adoptive parent.
