Inspiring the Next Generation

Hello, I’m Mika Rauch and I spent time in foster care with New Directions when I was a teen.

When I was 14, I went into foster care at Hillside. After some time, I was transferred to New Directions. For 8 months, I stayed at what is now the Chautauqua Agency Operated Group Home. I remember having my own room there and the kids who were like pseudo-siblings to me. I remember that people liked being around me and it was really fun! I moved out when my mom got custody of me when I was 16.

Today, foster care is still a part of my life. In December 2025, I opened Mrs. Reesher’s Reserves, a foster closet based in Rochester, NY. We work closely with agencies offering foster care services in the Rochester area to provide clothes, toys, and hygiene products for foster kids and their families. We make an effort to include the children’s families so that families who may not have the means can still provide for their kids during visits. Aside from the work I am doing with Mrs. Reesher’s Reserves, I also speak publicly and participate in interviews regarding foster care.

As someone who was in foster care, I wanted to let foster parents and those interested in becoming foster parents know that when a foster child is lashing out, it’s not necessarily you that they are angry with. They may be lashing out because they see you as a safe person who they can express their emotions with. Additionally, for those looking to help out in other ways, it’s important to look into what services are already being offered in your area and what needs may be overlooked. Maybe instead of creating something new, there is something that already exists that you can support. And don’t overextend yourself. Your mental health matters too!

Lastly, I’d like to mention that two of the most valuable things for charities, non-profits, and organizations like Mrs. Reesher’s Reserves, are time and money. A little bit can go a long way. Every dollar and every minute that caring individuals spend on these organizations can add up to a huge impact!

Learn more about Mrs. Reesher’s Reserves through their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BqRs2RbjJ/