Recently, we had the privilege of speaking with a foster family who adopted from foster care. Their story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering dedication. Here are their reflections on their inspiring journey. The decision to foster and eventually provide permanency for children from foster care is one of the most life-changing commitments for a family.
What inspired you to adopt from foster care?
“Our inspiration came from our first placement, who stayed with us for 15 months. Their family couldn’t stabilize, and no relatives stepped forward. No one was available to help them transition out of foster care. We built a strong bond with these little ones. We couldn’t imagine not raising our hand to help them.
Just as we discussed adoption, a family member emerged. We wholeheartedly supported their transition and helped them build a connection. We involved them in daily life until they were ready for permanence. Seeing them reunite with family was a joyful moment. That was always the goal, but saying goodbye was heartbreaking.
Still, moments like these reaffirm why we foster. We provide love, stability, and safety for as long as a child needs. Even the hardest goodbyes mean we’ve made a lasting difference.”
What was the turning point that led you to adopt?
“The turning point was a deeply personal and emotional moment. Our family supported our placement through hospital stays, late nights, and appointments. Their biological parent walked away after realizing the extent of their medical needs. At that moment, we knew in our hearts these children were ours. The finalization call came just before Mother’s Day. It was one of the most memorable ones.”
How has adopting from foster care changed your family’s life?
“Watching our children thrive despite early challenges has been incredible. Seeing them healthy, happy, and resilient is nothing short of miraculous. Our older children have also grown from the experience. They’ve developed a greater sense of empathy and a deeper understanding of their role in the community. Seeing them adapt and learn strategies to help others become better individuals has been heartwarming. Our journey has brought both highs and lows, but it has unified our family in a way we never expected. We’ve learned to approach parenting with a focus on what’s best for the child rather than what’s easiest for us. Our older children have also adopted this mindset, often remarking that children shouldn’t have to carry adult problems. It’s been a profound lesson for us all.”
What were some challenges you faced on your adoption journey?
“Initially, we didn’t plan to adopt, so we weren’t prepared with all the necessary documentation. This delayed the process and taught us the importance of being prepared for unexpected possibilities. My advice to others is to remain open and flexible. Prepare for the unexpected so you’re ready to act when the time comes.”
How has your community supported your journey?
“When we began our foster care journey, we knew we couldn’t do it alone. What we didn’t realize was just how much our community would play a role in making it possible. Fostering comes with so many unknowns, and while the goal is always reunification, sometimes adoption becomes the path forward. That was the case for our family.
We were incredibly fortunate to have an amazing support network. Our friends, family, and community stepped in when we needed them most. They provided respite care, meals, and childcare during tough times. They didn’t just support us; they embraced our children with love and acceptance. This created a sense of belonging that made the transition smoother for everyone. Knowing we had people to lean on helped us focus on what mattered most. Loving and caring for the children in our home remained our top priority.
For anyone considering fostering or adoption, community support is essential. Friends offered date-night childcare, which gave us much-needed breaks. They connected us with other foster families who shared advice and encouragement. Sometimes, just having someone to listen made all the difference. This journey can feel overwhelming, but a strong support system makes it manageable. When you have a village behind you, everything becomes easier.”
What would you say to someone considering fostering?
“Start with respite care to get a feel for the experience. It’s a great way to understand the challenges and joys of fostering in a hands-on way. While the journey is demanding, it’s also gratifying and life-changing.”
What were some of the most memorable moments of your fostering journey?
“There have been countless moments, even before adoption, that reaffirmed our decision. From the first steps to overcoming medical challenges, every milestone has been a celebration. Adoption was simply the continuation of the love and care we had already built.”
Supporting Children in Foster Care: Every Role Matters
This foster family’s story reminds us how love, dedication, and community impact children in foster care. Their journey has been challenging but rewarding. They have experienced immeasurable joy and personal growth along the way.
For anyone considering fostering or adoption, their advice is simple. Take the first step, stay open, and build a strong support system. This journey can transform your life in unexpected ways. It changes both you and the children you welcome into your home.
But here’s the thing—not everyone is called to foster, and that’s okay. There are still countless ways to make a meaningful impact. If fostering isn’t for you, consider:
- Providing meals or care packages
- Becoming a mentor for a foster child
- Donating to organizations that serve foster families
- Offering respite care or babysitting
- Simply being a friend who listens and encourages
Success stories of foster care aren’t just about families who open their homes. They are about the entire community surrounding them with love and support. We are incredibly grateful for those who have stood by us throughout this journey. Their support has made a meaningful difference in our lives. We encourage you to consider how you can support a foster family in your own community. Even small acts of kindness matter.
Have you supported a foster family in some way? If you’ve fostered, what role did your community play in your experience? We want to hear your foster family story! Let’s keep the conversation going—because every bit of support matters. Get in touch and learn more HERE.