Christians call the story of Jesus the “gospel.” The word really means “good news” or “good story.” I love the latter definition. Everyone loves a good story. Good news is most enjoyed, and most helpful, when it is shared.
Foster care is good news for kids needing a safe place to stay. We offer them a loving home where they can breathe. The truth is, we need more homes for children needing safety. This is a good time for us all to be foster parent evangelists, sharing our stories. Each of us has a voice and a sphere of influence. Those closest to the foster care world have the most insight to share, and the greatest storytellers are current foster parents themselves.
So today, what is the story that you in the CKFS community can tell to bring in more caregivers? I share these points:
- Foster Parenting Is a Calling, Not a Program
Share your story with those you come into contact with and see if there is a stirring in their heart. Have you ever considered that you may have been called so you can call others? Your story may be the confirmation they need. - The Need Is Urgent
Share the urgency of the need. There are more kids needing care than there are beds to put them in. This gap is real, and those impacted are the children. A loving home can change the future for a child. - Your Story Makes Foster Care Tangible
Real stories from real people cut through fear and misinformation better than any other form of communication. You make foster care tangible. - You Are an Advocate for Children Without a Voice
You, as a foster parent, an employee working in child welfare, or a caring member of our community, can represent children who cannot stand for themselves. You are their advocate. Speaking up and recruiting for foster care is a powerful way to love more children. - Love Changes Lives—and Trauma
You can testify to the power of love and the difference one home can make in a child’s life. Most people don’t understand trauma or how love can reverse it, but you do. You have good news to tell and can share how ordinary homes can stop trauma and offer hope. In their ordinary home, God can do extraordinary work. - You Can Speak with Unique Perspective
You can answer questions, dispel myths, and tell the truth. Foster care is hard, right? It can be disruptive and it can carry costs other than money. To pretend otherwise is unfair. Yet, the sacrifice made by families becomes holy ground when love is the first choice. - God Calls Willing Hearts, Not Perfect Ones
You can call others into obedience to a passion and a calling, not perfection. They are not being called because they are perfectly prepared. God will prepare those who obey. The best things any of us have done started with a willing heart. - Truth Sets People Free from Excuses
You know how the Bible says, “the truth will set you free?” I’m going to use that a bit out of context and say you can set people free from myths and excuses concerning age, finances, space, and abilities. - They Won’t Walk Alone
You can tell them they won’t be alone. We will equip them and support them for success, and you can be their mentor. - Fostering Changes Everyone Involved
You can share that fostering a child does not just change the child’s life, but also the foster parents and their families. Life is never the same when you have seen hope come to life.
So, boldly ask those who come into your space to seriously consider being foster parents. Be direct and clear. Many people are just waiting for an invitation. And when you recruit others, your impact goes far beyond your home. It multiplies your legacy.
Foster parents, God bless you for answering the call.
Blessings.
