Salt Lake City, Oct. 29, 2024 – In recognition of National Adoption Month, Celeste L. Edmunds, acclaimed author of the powerful memoir Garbage Bag Girl, is donating copies of her book to 1,900 Utah caseworkers and foster parents. Edmunds, a passionate advocate for children’s welfare, hopes to inspire those who work tirelessly to support vulnerable children in the foster care system.
Edmunds’ memoir offers an unfiltered look into her experiences growing up in foster care. From the age of seven, she was subjected to constant relocation and mistreatment, often moving between homes with her belongings packed in a garbage bag. By age sixteen, she had lived in more than 30 cities. Garbage Bag Girl tells the story of how she overcame abuse and neglect and found resilience in the face of adversity.
In offering free copies of her book to caseworkers and foster parents, Edmunds aims to honor those who dedicate their lives to children in the system. “I want to acknowledge the unwavering commitment of Utah’s caseworkers and foster parents who care for children navigating some of life’s hardest challenges,” said Edmunds. “Their work is invaluable, and my hope is that Garbage Bag Girl provides a sense of connection and hope for those helping to shape the futures of children in need.”
Edmunds understands the need for more loving foster homes in our community. “Foster parent education has come a long way since I was in the system. Educated and empathetic foster parents are essential to ensure the best possible outcomes for children in Utah’s foster care system,” said Edmunds.
Nikki MacKay, Chief Executive Officer for Utah Foster Care adds, “Loving adults have an immeasurable impact on the lives of children in care. Utah is facing a critical shortage of foster parents. By acting now, you can help create a nurturing environment where children can be supported in overcoming the challenges of healing from trauma.”
About Garbage Bag Girl
Garbage Bag Girl is a gripping, first-person account of Celeste L. Edmunds’ life as a child in the welfare system. Separated from her family due to her parents’ drug addiction, Edmunds was placed into foster care where she endured abuse from foster families, lived in unsafe conditions, and was forced to fend for herself. Her memoir not only highlights her personal trials but also the importance of compassionate care for children in the system. Garbage Bag Girl is available for purchase through Amazon.com.
Endorsements
Renowned figures in literature and child welfare have praised Garbage Bag Girl for its raw honesty and impactful storytelling. #1 International Bestselling Author Dave Pelzer commends Edmunds for her resilience, and Diane Moore, Former Director of Utah’s Division of Child and Family Services, hails her as a profile in courage and resiliency, highlighting the importance of loving family connections for every child.
About Celeste L. Edmunds
Celeste L. Edmunds is the Executive Director of The Christmas Box International, an organization that has provided more than 155,000 children with safe, nurturing environments as they begin to navigate the child welfare system. A passionate advocate for children’s welfare, Edmunds has dedicated her life to supporting those who have experienced hardship. Her memoir, Garbage Bag Girl, reflects her commitment to using personal experiences to inspire hope and resilience in others. To learn more about Celeste Edmunds, please visit celesteedmunds.com.
About The Christmas Box International
In 1996, founder and New York Times best-selling author Richard Paul Evans created a safe place for Utah’s children, a Christmas Box House, naming the charity after his first novel, The Christmas Box. The Christmas Box International partners with local, national, and international groups to improve the quality of life for children, teens, and young adults who are victims of abuse, neglect, trafficking, or are facing homelessness. The motto is simple: every child deserves a childhood. For additional information please visit www.thechristmasbox.org.
About Utah Foster Care
Utah Foster Care serves Utah’s children by finding, educating and nurturing families to meet the needs of children in foster care. Utah Foster Care believes every child deserves a safe home with a loving family. By becoming a foster parent, you are also sharing your strength, your home, and your future—making a commitment to help, heal, and enrich the lives of abused and neglected children. For additional information please visit www.utahfostercare.org.
