A chemist, who nurtured an impressive 59 foster children, has been recognized with the prestigious Saxon Order of Merit.
In the heart of Chemnitz, a city in eastern Germany, thirteen children are currently waiting for a suitable foster family. One woman, Barbara Schoenfeld, has dedicated her life to providing a loving home for children in need.
Barbara, a 72-year-old grandmother, was recently honoured with the Saxon Order of Merit for her exceptional work as a foster mother. For over two decades, she opened her doors to 59 foster children, creating a warm and nurturing environment in her four-room apartment.
Barbara's dedication started at a young age. She began caring for children as early as eight years old, babysitting every weekend. Her journey as a foster mother began in 1998 when she took in Shannon, an eight-month-old baby who weighed 2800 grams and was 48 centimeters tall. Today, Shannon, now 27, leads an independent life but remains close to Barbara, considering her like a second mother.
Barbara's home has been a sanctuary for children in Chemnitz. Currently, there are 299 foster children living with 253 foster families in the city. However, the demand for foster parents is high, and more families are needed to provide a safe and loving home for these children.
Despite the recognition she has received, Barbara humbly acknowledges that many others also deserve the Saxon Order of Merit. She started her career as a waitress and worked in a pudding factory before dedicating herself full-time to fostering. Her commitment to her foster children has been a source of fulfilment for her.
Barbara's eyes light up when she talks about children. Shannon, who works during the day, attends the "Club Heinrich" of the Chemnitz Mission in the afternoon. The city's public baths have also seen a surge in visitor numbers, suggesting that families are spending more quality time together.
The discovery of bacteria in Chemnitz's drinking water has raised concerns, but the community's spirit remains strong. Barbara Schoenfeld's story is a testament to the power of love and compassion, reminding us that every child deserves a loving home.
Barbara's home, a sanctuary in Chemnitz, offers a nurturing lifestyle not only for its original family-dynamics but also for the foster children she has welcomed for two decades. Her dedication extends beyond her home, as she encourages the fostering of relationships among families in the city to reduce the demand for foster families and provide a prosperous home-and-garden environment for more children in need.
