Mr. and Mrs. Cartwright, foster parents with CK Family Services, celebrated the adoption of twin 10-year-old boys this year, a journey that began simply with open hearts and a willingness to serve.
“Originally, we just wanted to foster. We love children, our own are grown, and we have space! That’s what led us to opening our home and hearts to children in need,” they shared.
With two adult sons and a new grandson, the Cartwrights could have easily considered their parenting chapter complete. Instead, they chose to stay open to whatever God had in store next. During an informational meeting, both felt prompted to attend the additional class on adoption; "just in case."
Then they met the twins.
“We expected to stick with foster care, but God was writing a bigger story,” Latisha shared.
As the case progressed, the court explored placement with biological relatives, first an uncle, then a grandmother, but neither option worked out. Through it all, the Cartwrights remained steadfast. “Every step of the way, we assured the boys that we were going to be here, no matter how the story ended.”
The twins, too, were clear about their hopes. They consistently told their caseworkers that if they couldn’t return to their mother, they wanted to stay with the Cartwrights. “Hearing that again and again solidified our decision to make the boys part of our forever family.” Two years later, their adoption was finalized.
Today, the family is thriving in their new normal. At a family celebration marking the adoption, relatives shared words of love and welcome, but the most touching moment came when the boys took the microphone themselves. “Thank you for accepting us into your family. We love everybody,” they said, bringing tears to every eye in the room.
Their teachers describe them as sweet, hardworking, curious, and eager to learn. As a professional educator, Latisha Cartwright beams hearing this feedback. “They’re getting more excited about learning and school. Hearing that was my win for today!”
The Cartwrights say the journey has been full of joy and surprises. “It’s been a rollercoaster. We all buckled up for the ride!” They’ve delighted in giving the boys so many firsts, like dining out at restaurants, going on a cruise, and even taking part in their vow renewal ceremony.
Today, the Cartwrights continue to foster and currently have one foster daughter in their home. Latisha's advice to others considering fostering or adoption is heartfelt: “Lead with love, not labels. Every child who comes into your home has a story. What they need most isn’t perfection. It’s safety, patience, and genuine love. And stay open to God’s plan!”
Thank you to the Cartwrights for being part of the forever story for two amazing boys. Our team is deeply grateful to witness and celebrate such incredible journeys of love and family.
