Being There When It Matters Most: Jessica’s Journey as a Foster Parent

Jessica and a little bright girl Mackenzie


Becoming a foster parent is more than opening your home—it's opening your heart. For Jessica, that journey began five years ago. She didn’t know exactly what to expect, but she knew she wanted to be there for children who needed stability, safety, and love.


One of Jessica’s first foster placements was a bright little girl named Mackenzie. She lived with Jessica for about a year, during a time when her mother, Elizabeth, was working through a difficult period. From the beginning, Jessica believed in the power of partnership. She maintained an open, respectful relationship with Elizabeth, always putting Mackenzie’s well-being first.


Eventually, Elizabeth made great progress, and Mackenzie was able to return home. But unlike many stories that end with reunification, this one didn’t. Jessica, Elizabeth, and Mackenzie stayed in touch—because their bond had become more than just a foster care placement. They had become extended family.


Three years later, life took another unexpected turn. Elizabeth found herself in financial hardship and living in her car. Determined to avoid losing Mackenzie to the system again, she turned to someone she trusted: Jessica.


Without hesitation, Jessica stepped in—not as a foster parent this time, but as family. She welcomed Mackenzie back into her home through a “family arrangement,” giving Elizabeth the time and space she needed to get back on her feet. During those months, Elizabeth remained involved in Mackenzie’s life, helping with her care and schooling. Jessica didn’t see this as a burden; she saw it as what families do for each other.


Four months later, Elizabeth secured stable housing and a better-paying job. She was ready to have Mackenzie come home again—and because of Jessica’s support, that reunification was smooth, dignified, and filled with hope.

Jessica didn’t do it for recognition or reward. She did it because she cares. She did it because being a foster parent isn’t just a role—it’s a lifelong commitment to showing up when it matters most.


Stories like Jessica’s remind us that foster parents are truly extraordinary. They don’t just care for children—they help hold families together when everything else is falling apart. And in that, they change lives.

A Heart Bigger Than Circumstance: Tom’s Journey as an Unexpected Father

By Jane Denny Richardson • April 3, 2025
When life takes an unexpected turn, some people step up in ways they never imagined. Tom is one of those people. A young man with no children of his own, he never planned on becoming a full-time parent. But when his three young nieces needed a stable home, he didn’t hesitate—he became their rock, their protector, and ultimately, their father figure. An Unexpected Call to Fatherhood Tom’s life was simple before his nieces came to live with him. He worked hard, enjoyed time with friends, and had dreams of his own. But his sister, struggling with personal challenges, was unable to care for her daughters. When faced with the possibility of them entering foster care, Tom made a life-altering decision: he took them in, not just temporarily, but permanently. Navigating a New Reality Becoming an instant parent to three children wasn’t easy. There were sleepless nights, school drop-offs, doctor’s appointments, and the constant worry of doing things “right.” Tom had no parenting handbook, no partner to share the load, and no experience raising children. But he had something stronger—love and determination. He learned how to braid hair, help with homework, and be both firm and gentle when needed. He juggled work with school functions and bedtime stories. He discovered the magic of unconditional love and the deep responsibility that came with it. Honoring Family Bonds Despite taking full custody, Tom never wanted to sever the bond between his nieces and their mother. He made a conscious effort to ensure his sister remained a part of their lives in a healthy way. She visits them regularly, celebrating birthdays, cheering them on at school events, and embracing her role in a way that keeps the family connected. A Community of Support Tom’s journey hasn’t been one he’s taken alone. Friends of Foster Children stepped in to offer support, guidance and encouragement. His Kinship Navigator always offered an ear to listen and directed him towards the support he needed. Through encouragement from FFC, Tom has built a village around his family. A Love That Redefines Family Tom’s story is proof that family isn’t just about biology—it’s about love, commitment, and showing up when it matters most. He never expected to be a father, but now, he wouldn’t have it any other way. His nieces don’t just have an uncle; they have a dad who chose them, who loves them fiercely, and who is shaping their future with every sacrifice he makes. Tom may not have planned this path, but he has embraced it with his whole heart. And in doing so, he has given his nieces something priceless: a stable, loving home and a future filled with hope.