CHRISTINA SILVA / MAKE THE BEST OF THE SITUATION

"The foster care system taught me that I'm a lot stronger than I think and that there are other kids that were just like me."

Christina Silva shares #HerStory for #SpeakUp:

"The most challenging part of being in the system is getting comfortable with being away from your family, and living with strangers. My parents also weren't as strict as the foster parents and programs so that was an adjustment as well.

When I emancipated from the system, I just needed to know that I'd still have support from either a therapist or mentor. It's hard going from being surrounded by kids like you and staff that cares about you, to being back on your own.

Some advice- Take it one day at a time... Do what you need to do, follow the rules and try and make the best of the situation."