At CK Family Services, we are privileged to work with families who go above and beyond to provide love, stability, and unwavering support to children in need. In particular, we are honored to highlight Tammy and Andrew Haymaker, a Treatment Foster Care (TFC) family since September 2022.
A Journey of Dedication
The Haymakers' journey into foster care began in an unexpected way. Tammy, a dedicated teacher, met Tabitha* at school and quickly formed a deep connection with her. When she learned that Tabitha was in foster care, she and Andrew became verified as a kinship home to provide her with a safe and loving environment. Their path, however, has been anything but easy.
Tabitha has faced significant challenges, including mental health concerns, severe behaviors, and even animal aggression—challenges that might have led other families to give up. At one point, she needed specialized treatment at Fort Behavioral, but the Haymakers never gave up on her. They remained steadfast in their support, and after her treatment, Tabitha returned home, where she has now been for a year and a half.
Unwavering Commitment
Throughout their time as a TFC home, Tammy and Andrew have welcomed and cared for multiple children with severe behavioral needs. They approach each child with a trauma-informed perspective, meeting them where they are and parenting with intention. Their deep commitment to understanding trauma and tailoring their approach to each child's unique needs is what sets them apart.
Tammy, a lifelong educator, is always seeking to expand her knowledge of trauma and child development. Andrew, despite his disability, is a loving and engaged father, never letting his challenges keep him from making a difference. Their support system extends beyond just their immediate family—Tammy’s parents have been instrumental in providing care and guidance, even living with them at times. Tammy’s mother reads books on trauma to enhance her ability to support the children from a grandparent’s role, demonstrating the family’s collective dedication to the children’s well-being.
A Community of Support
The Haymakers’ impact extends beyond their own home. They are deeply committed to supporting other foster families, stepping in to help when others are in crisis and providing hands-on assistance. Currently, they are in the process of launching a foster parent support group through their church, creating a space for other families to find guidance and encouragement. In addition, they actively refer families to CK Family Services, sharing their successes and encouraging others to step into the foster care journey.
A Lasting Legacy
Tammy and Andrew Haymaker embody the heart of foster care—resilient, compassionate, and unwavering in their commitment to children from hard places. Their willingness to embrace the challenges of foster care, their dedication to supporting other families, and their efforts to build a strong community of care make them an inspiration to us all. We are grateful for the Haymakers and all of the other incredible foster parents in our community who have a profound impact on the lives of children and families everyday.
*Name changed for anonymity.
