Solo Parenting in Foster Care: The Hidden Struggles?

As a solo parent in foster care, you're not alone in facing the hidden struggles that come with caring for vulnerable children. From navigating the complexities of the foster care system to dealing with the emotional toll of trauma, solo parenting in foster care can be a daunting task. In this video, we'll delve into the often-overlooked challenges that solo foster parents face and explore ways to overcome them. Whether you're a seasoned foster parent or just starting your journey, this video is for you. Get ready to feel seen, heard, and empowered to keep making a difference in the lives of the children who need you most.

Peter Mutabazi founded Now I Am Known, an organization that supplies resources to support vulnerable children. Originally from Uganda, Peter ran away from an abusive home at age ten and lived as a street kid for nearly five years. Today, Peter is a single dad to countless foster children and his adopted children, Anthony, Ryder, and Skyler.

Every child deserves a space like home—a sanctuary that echoes their unique spirit and aspirations. Through our Surprise Bedroom Makeovers, we transform the rooms of foster kids and teens into personalized havens of comfort, joy, and belonging. Because when a child feels seen, they feel known. And when they feel known, they shine.

As an African-immigrated citizen AND a former foster child himself—Peter provides educational, inspirational talks on foster care, adoption, child advocacy, and parenting. Peter has overcome a variety of life challenges, and he encourages listeners to love those around them and choose to see the hope in their stories.

[lakateyann]

I'm a single parent to one child and I can barely do it all with tons of help from my mother and step-father. I am in awe of how well you take care of 5 kiddos! Keep up the good work and try to find ways to take breaks for yourself so you do no burn out. The world needs your goodness and kindness, so please pace yourself. Sending you good vibes.

[personincognito]

I like how you can talk about this and people aren't taking it like you're complaining, you're just venting and talking about the realities. It's very clear of the minute you start talking that you love your job

[susied]

Peter I love you and your children and really wish I lived closer so I could come help with things and give you a break. I'd love to shop, cook, help with homework, drive them places or just bring some food for the kids while you and I sat in another room having a conversation. Or I'd just keep an eye on the children so you could maybe go take a much needed nap. As an introvert myself, I know that having time alone is so refreshing. And I know what it's like to take care of children all day and night with very little or no help and how exhausting that can be. I'll pray the Lord will send someone into your life to help you with all your responsibilities. You are doing such great things in the lives of these precious children and I thank you for that. But I also hope you can find some time, energy and the ability to take care of yourself as well.

[PatW-kj]

Hugs to you Peter - I can see how much you love all of your children

[nickyjean]

Sounds really difficult Peter. Thank you for what you do!! You're one in a million!!!

[aroth]

“What we do today will affect us and those around us 7 months from now..”
Is a great reminder in general for everyone ❤

[gj]

Working parents are sometimes, basically single parents, they work together on the timetable while the other one is working, so a big shout out to these amazing parents❤

[rayasellam]

It's hard being a single parent. It's good to share all the realities that come with parenting alone.

I also really feel its time to retire from fostering other children. Take good care of the 5 children who live with you and see you as their father. Give them all the love and safety they need. Give yourself a break from CPS. Try to adopt Bella if its possible and focus on your family of 6.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[NewPerspectives]

Watching your videos I've asked myself so many times how you do all the things you do. Parenting is such a hard job, and I can't imagine doing it solo. I would imagine with fostering there is an added emotional element as you see kids come and go, learn of their traumas, etc. I hope you have good supports around you Peter, and that you manage to make time for self-care when needed.

[larisakordonsky]

Warm regards from Australia ! You are Amazing person !!! God bless you !!

[jimhoward]

Great communication, Peter. Sounds like it would be nice for friends to drop by your house and see you that way. Just sit out on the porch and talk!

[belladrea]

Being a single parent isn’t easy. Those who aren’t single parents sometimes don’t understand all the struggles that we encounter on a daily basis. Having a network of support is really important. It doesn’t matter if you have one or five kids. Plus not being able to split the stresses and the load, can be hard. However, the joys and successes make it worth it. We do it because we love them and we want to help them succeed. Thanks for being candid and know you’re doing great!

[Kayr]

If the parents give up custody of Bella, can the mother request she goes to you instead of checking out other family members?

[mindykubat]

How you doing Peter? I hope all is well. 👍🥰

[LP-tuli]

What are your sources of support? Who do you rely on emotionally?

[F.L]

Sounds like my family. Married with children🙈

[joycesga]

Hi Peter ... you are NOT the only single parent in the luckily you have