When Chris and Lauren became foster parents just over a year ago, they felt a strong calling to support children in need. Like many new foster parents, they were eager to welcome a child into their home and provide the stability every child deserves.
Last June, they welcomed Lily*, a 7-year-old, into their home. Shortly after, they learned that her baby sister, Evie*, and teenage brother, Josh*, were also in need of foster placement.
“When we told Chris and Lauren about Lily’s siblings, they didn’t hesitate to adjust their plans,” shared their Case Planner, Haley George. “Eventually, they opened their home to all three children.”
What began as a vision to foster one child quickly transformed into something much bigger.
Chris and Lauren made it a priority to build a strong relationship with the children’s mother. They coordinated and transported visits, creating routines that worked for everyone. Their support was rooted in a genuine belief in reunification and the importance of family.
“Josh entered foster care with a particularly strained relationship with his birth mother. It was going to take time and effort to rebuild,” explained Haley.
Recognizing this, Chris and Lauren ensured he had access to counseling and the support he needed to process his experiences. With patience and encouragement, healing began to take place. Over time, trust grew among everyone.
Last week, after months of dedication, growth and collaboration, Lily, Evie and Josh were reunified with their mother.
“Chris and Lauren have created such a strong relationship with the children’s mother,” shared Haley. “If she ever needed help down the line, they would be her first call and more than willing to respond.”
This reunification is a powerful example of what foster care can look like at its best. Through an unwavering commitment to doing what was right for the children, Chris and Lauren helped make it possible for a family to come back together.
*Names changed for confidentiality.