Editor’s Note: For privacy reasons, names and certain details have been changed. These stories are shared by former houseparents who have served at various children’s homes to offer insight, encouragement, and prayer for those considering this role. To respect the privacy of the children in these stories, we use artistic depictions rather than real photos.

A Houseparent Story: David’s Journey
Written by Chris Hagan, Former Houseparent

David came to us when he was just 9 years old. He was small for his age, standing about 4’5” and weighing around 70 pounds. But what stood out most wasn’t his size—it was the fear in his eyes. He had come from a single-parent home, carrying the weight of uncertainty, and in those early days, he kept mostly to himself, unsure of what to expect.

For the first few days, he moved through the house quietly, observing, staying in the background. Then came a turning point—one simple, everyday moment that changed everything.

It was dinner time. We had grilled steaks for the family, filling the home with the comforting smell of a home-cooked meal. The table was filled with conversation and laughter, but David sat still, staring at his plate. Something wasn’t right.

Concerned, I gently asked, “David, is something wrong? Is there something on your plate you don’t like?”

His eyes welled up with tears as he looked up and said, “I can’t cut my food. Nobody ever taught me how.”

The room fell silent. No one laughed. No one made him feel small. Instead, our house mom, Tonya, quietly got up, walked over, and sat beside him. With patience and warmth, she took his hands in hers, guiding him as she showed him how to hold the knife and fork, how to press down and saw gently through the meat. It was such a simple lesson, but in that moment, it meant everything.

As David finally managed to cut his own food, his tears turned to relief. It was more than just a meal—it was a moment of care, of dignity, of being seen. From that night on, something in David changed. Slowly, he began to bloom, like a flower stretching toward the sun.

Each day, he grew more comfortable, more engaged. He began sharing pieces of his life, his dreams, and his fears. We taught him about God’s love, about how he was cherished, and about the strength he carried within him. The stability and guidance he found with us were the opposite of the world he had known before.

One of David’s greatest dreams was to join the military, following in the footsteps of his grandfather. With determination and hard work, he made that dream a reality. Today, at 19 years old, David stands at 6’2”, a strong and disciplined young man proudly serving in the U.S. Navy. At 17, he was baptized, a testament to his faith, and now he leads devotionals with his fellow recruits, sharing the love of Christ that transformed his own life.

We are humbled to have been part of David’s journey. From a quiet, uncertain boy to a confident man of faith, his story is a reminder of the incredible power of love, patience, and unwavering belief in a child’s potential.

A Prayer of GratitudeHeavenly Father, we lift up children like David, who enter our lives carrying burdens too heavy for their young shoulders. We thank You for the opportunity to provide them with love, guidance, and the knowledge of Your unending grace. Lord, we ask that You continue to send dedicated houseparents to nurture and uplift these children. May we always remember that even the smallest acts of kindness can change a life forever. We pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.