The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Metro Atlantans help twin foster mothers
Inspired by a story in the AJC, readers donate to the cause for struggling foster mothers Prissy and Patty Moses.
Christmas is over, but surprises continue to roll in for Patty and Prissy Moses, twin sisters who were featured in the AJC last month. Together they have fostered over 20 children and adopted three, including a special needs child.
Prissy Moses is nearly three years removed from having a series of strokes that left her unable to work. Readers were touched by the Moses’ heart-warming story and financial struggles and responded generously.
“I was deeply touched,” said Jeanne Moorman, 69, of Duluth. “I decided to donate because they remind me so much of my recently deceased husband’s family. His mother had foster children and went on to work with an agency that assisted special needs children.”
Moorman also wanted to help because of her views on health care. “Many people are one health crisis away from bankruptcy. Patty and Prissy are caring people who stepped up and helped. It’s heartbreaking to find them in financial straits when they have selflessly helped so many others.”
The Atlanta-based Kyle Pease Foundation, which focuses on providing assistance for people with disabilities through sports, also donated after reading about the Moses family.
“We really believe in inclusion and that’s at the core of what we do,” said Brent Pease, executive director of the Kyle Pease Foundation. “We were touched by their story and excited and honored to support them.”
The Moses sisters were surprised on Friday with a check — all from reader donations — that can cover their bills for two months. So stunned by the amount were the women that they broke into fits of giggles.
“Oh my gosh, the Lord has worked a miracle,” said Prissy as she hugged her sister’s arm.
Patty, who’s the caregiver for her sister and the children, now has a bad case of plaque psoriasis caused by stress.
“There’s been a lot of stress lately and I really debated on sharing our story,” said Patty. “I was nervous about protecting the kids and about sharing so much personal information. We worried about being judged. We’re doing the best we can, and we would never want to be a burden on anyone.”
Throughout February, the Leadership Preparatory Academy, a charter school in Stonecrest, will be fundraising for the Moses family through school valentine and candy purchases. Tonya Williams, chief academic officer at the academy, vows to personally match the amount the school raises and hopes her Parent-Teacher Organization matches as well.
“This story so aligns with what we’re trying to teach our kids,” Williams said. “We’re trying to teach them love. We assume that kids know how to be loving and compassionate and we take for granted that all kids receive that.”
If you would like to donate, click “Donate” at www. maximusjantonfoundation. org and type “Moses” in the additional information box. The family will receive 100% of the donations. If you would like to learn more about fostering in Georgia, please visit www.dfcs.georgia. gov