Thanks so much for the kind words everyone.
Astrokitty, I truly want to be like you when I grow up. *wink*
datalover, I tip my hat to you. Living in the DC metro area is not easy, especially as a single parent but you made it and I hope you will continue to share your story so that others in your situation may know that there is hope.
fitmix, ***HUG*** The struggle is real in DC and most people don't understand the unique culture of DC. I confess, I thought I was in the twilight zone when I first came to DC but it grew on me (except for go-go). I actually passed by the Shrimp Boat the other day. I hope that you will continue to share your tales about DC as well. These children need role models who are just like them but were able to do better for themselves by going to college, and getting a good job, and exploring the world. They need to know that it is possible to escape the cycle.
I have so many, I like to refer to them as 'tales' versus horror stories but I think I am too emotionally drained right now to share. I do want to share however that I was checking out the website for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which is based out of Alexandria, VA, a suburb of DC. They offer a lot of resources for families of missing and exploited children from retired police officers assistance to printable flyers. This organization does an excellent job of getting the word out about missing children and they have been working with the Metropolitan Police Department. What they stress is the importance of awareness so I just wanted to reiterate their message of talking to your children about stranger danger and the importance of being safe. Love your children like there is no tomorrow and if you can, take time to offer a little extra love to that child who continues to go without.