Lisa Saunders, along with her brother-in-law Kenny, and family members Felicia and Sabrina, is making a heartfelt effort to reconnect with Miss Tonya, a beloved caregiver at Joshua House in Lutz, Florida during the 1990s.
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What Happened
Between 1994 and 1998, Lisa and her relatives spent time in foster care at Joshua House. During this difficult chapter, Lisa lived in a home with younger children and was cared for by Miss Tonya, a woman who provided love, structure, and support at a time when Lisa needed it most.
Miss Tonya, an African-American woman who was about 30 years old back then, worked as a caregiver at the facility. Even after Lisa eventually reunited with her biological mother, Miss Tonya continued to check in, showing how deeply she cared.
Who Was Miss Tonya
As Lisa recalls, Miss Tonya was one of the most compassionate and dedicated women she had ever met. She treated the children at Joshua House like family, creating a sense of safety and belonging. Today, Miss Tonya is believed to be around 60 years old and may still live in the Tampa, Florida area.
Lisa’s mission is simple yet deeply meaningful: to find Miss Tonya and thank her for everything she did during those formative years.
Why This Matters
For Lisa, Miss Tonya was more than a caregiver—she was a protector, mentor, and source of unconditional love during a vulnerable time. Reconnecting with her would allow Lisa to express gratitude for the life-changing impact Miss Tonya had on her childhood.
How You Can Help
If you knew Miss Tonya or have any information that could lead to reconnecting with her, please reach out. Lisa has even shared a childhood photo, hoping that Miss Tonya—or someone who knows her—will recognize the connection and help make this reunion possible.
What Happens Next
Lisa remains hopeful that this story will reach the right people. If you have a lead, share this post and spread the word—because sometimes, a small effort can lead to a big reunion.