By the time Steven was six years old, he had already experienced more instability than most children ever should. His childhood had been shaped by homelessness, uncertainty and separation from the people meant to care for him.

As his parents struggled with substance abuse, mental illness and incarceration, Steven moved between shelters and experienced periods of homelessness, never staying anywhere long enough to feel safe.

Eventually, his father realized that he couldn’t provide Steven with the life he needed.
But even then, stability didn’t come easily.

Over time, Steven learned to expect very little from the people who were supposed to be there for him. He became quiet and guarded—unsure of who he could trust and where he belonged.

When asked what he wished for most, Steven said he just wanted to be known and understood.

That began to happen when Steven was placed with his foster family, the Dunnings, through Kids Above All.

From the beginning, they treated him like family. They made space for him at the table, talked through their days together, and built simple routines—breakfast in the morning, dinner at night, and a room of his own to sleep in.

Those daily moments of connection and consistency helped Steven start to trust again.

With the support of Kids Above All, Steven also received counseling to help him process what he had been through. Over time, he started to open up, build confidence, and form stronger, healthier relationships.

Steven is now 13 and thriving.
He is regularly on the honor roll, excels in lacrosse and other sports, and is known by his teachers as someone who is eager to learn and quick to help others.

After nearly seven years with the Dunnings, Steven doesn’t just feel safe—he feels at home. He has even shared that he wants the family to adopt him, and Kids Above All and Dunnings are working to make sure that happens.

Steven’s story shows what becomes possible when a child has the stability, care, and the support they need.

This summer, more children like Steven—facing trauma, uncertainty, and inconsistent support from trusted adults—need your help so they have the care and resources to heal, grow, and their full potential.

Please consider making a donation to Kids Above All today so children can access the counseling and support they need to thrive.