FINAL_22_21_DPSS_AnnualReport

RIVERSIDE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SOCIAL SERVICES

19

Caregiver of the Year Award Recipient

Tyrone Stafford

Tyrone Stafford and his adoptive nephew Harold spending time together in Moreno Valley.

“Being a foster parent is something I feel called to do while I am here on Earth,” said single dad Tyrone Stafford, 31, who is among hundreds of caring foster parents in Riverside County. Stafford adopted a relative, now age five, and fosters four children between the ages of five and 11. As a former foster youth, Stafford said he was determined to become a role model for kids whose lives have been disrupted by abuse, neglect, or abandonment. “I wanted to beat the

odds and show that a foster male could grow up and be an example for others,” said Stafford. In May of 2021, the Board of Supervisors recognized Stafford along with three other parents, as Caregiver of the Year. Deborah Barcous, a parent partner at Olive Crest, said she admired Stafford’s dedication to his children. “Mr. Stafford speaks to his kids in a calm voice, and they feel loved and respected,” she said.

Annual Report 2021/2022