Support the Adoption Journey of Two Loving Boys

Four years ago, I sent my first email asking how to become a licensed foster parent. That one message set off a whirlwind—mountains of paperwork, training, background checks, references, vaccines, home inspections—every part of my life laid bare for social workers and home developers to see. And then, just two weeks after I was officially approved to take placements, I got the call: a 10-month-old baby boy needed a home. Without hesitation, I said yes.

For 17 months, I was his momma—loving him, caring for him, and at the same time, building a relationship with his biological mother. When he left, my heart shattered, even though I knew that reunification is always the hope in foster care. Nothing in foster care is every lucky, but I was glad I could be safe for him for that long and I was thankful I was able to pour nothing but love and joy into him for so long. I was lucky, though. I got to remain a part of his life and his family’s, even as I took in new placements. I advocated fiercely for my second placement, a big bro and little sis, to return to their mother, and when they did, I got to watch them flourish.

But just a few weeks after my brother-sister duo left, I received a call no foster parent ever wants to get: CPS asking if I could take back my first placement—this time, with his baby brother. Of course, I said yes, even as my heart broke for what this meant. I had fought so hard to support their family, to be part of their team. This wasn’t the story I had hoped for them.

Now, these sweet boys have been with me for over 14 months. Their journey is complex, and some pieces of their story must remain private. But what I can share is this: I have watched them thrive. My oldest is bright, funny, and full of love—tonight at bedtime, he wrapped his arms around me and said, "Momma, I just love you! I love our house! I love when I sleep in my bed at our house." My youngest, my little firecracker, is daring and determined. When he came to me, he was so far behind, but now he’s right on track—chatty, curious, and full of life.

Today, after court, it became clear that I need to hire legal representation. As a foster parent, I am not considered a legal party to the case, but because the boys have been with me for over a year, I now have the right to intervene. After consulting with an attorney, I have decided to fight for the chance to adopt them—to provide the stability and love they have known for most of their lives.

This is where I need your help. I work for a nonprofit, and while we live comfortably, I don’t have the kind of money to take on legal fees alone. If you are able, I would be deeply grateful for any financial support you can offer to help me fight for these boys—to ensure they remain safe, loved, and protected from further trauma.

I still believe in the importance of reunification, and I hope to maintain a relationship with their biological family in the years to come. But right now, I have to fight for the home they know, the stability they deserve, and the future that I believe is best for them.

Please consider donating today. I am grateful for your love and support.