A.N.A.’s Friends CEO publishes book chronicling experiences of children in foster care
A.N.A.’s Friends CEO Jessica Kaestner has authored her first children’s book, “Ana’s Friends,” inspired by the realities facing children who have experienced abuse, neglect or abandonment. Proceeds from the book will benefit programs serving Southwest Florida children and teens in foster care.
Kaestner wrote the book as an extension of A.N.A.’s Friends’ mission, drawing upon the experiences of local youth that her organization supports through programs like Heartfelt Hangouts, A.N.A.’s Comfort Closet, Children’s Needs Program and Beds for Kids. The story chronicles a fictional girl named Ana and reflects a broader effort to help children feel seen, valued and supported, while also encouraging others to better understand their needs.
Paperback versions are available in English and Spanish through Amazon Books or at A.N.A.’s Friends headquarters in Fort Myers for $14.99. The Kindle edition is also available through Amazon Books for $7.99.
Published by Two Penny Publishing and illustrated by Olivia Daley, the book introduces readers to Ana, a young girl navigating complex emotions that reflect the realities many children in foster care experience. Through a thoughtful and accessible narrative, the story encourages empathy, awareness and a deeper understanding of challenges that are often overlooked.
“This story is incredibly close to my heart,” Kaestner said. “It was written with deep love for children whose experiences are often hard to put into words, and with the hope that they might see a piece of themselves in its pages and feel a little less alone. At the same time, it offers others a chance to better understand those experiences and show up with compassion.”
Proceeds from “Ana’s Friends” will directly support these efforts, helping ensure children in the foster care system have access to the resources, care and encouragement they need to heal, grow and build brighter futures.
Learn more about A.N.A.’s Friends by visiting ANAsfriends.org or calling 239-245-7787.
About A.N.A.’s Friends
A.N.A.’s Friends is a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services to vulnerable Southwest Florida children and teens who have been Abused, Neglected and Abandoned (A.N.A.). “Friends” of the organization includes individuals, businesses, foundations and nonprofits that collaborate through partnerships that provide a safer, more nurturing environment that ensures youth have the support, resources and opportunities needed to build brighter futures. Originally founded in 1983, A.N.A.’s Friends is a United Way Partner Agency that serves youth in the dependency court system across Collier, Lee, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties. For more information, please visit ANAsfriends.org or call 239-245-7787.