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.

Finding Home: A Story of Love and Stability

written by Geneva Brewer, former house parent

At just eight years old, she was placed in our home, removed from a difficult and neglectful environment. Not only had she missed out on care and attention, but she had never really been taught responsibility—basic things like making a bed, tidying a room, or doing laundry.

But she watched and learned.

Surrounded by seven other girls, all of whom took care of their space and helped with chores, she quickly picked up new skills. More than anything, she loved getting new clothes—especially matching pajamas.

She was one of the youngest in the home, and the older girls naturally took her under their wing. They helped her, guided her, and showed her compassion in ways that were both beautiful and heartbreaking.

What hurt the most was when her family would schedule visits and then never show up.

After seeing her disappointment time and time again, we stopped telling her when visits were planned. Instead, we let them be a surprise—that way, she wouldn’t have to wait for something that might never happen.

In time, something wonderful happened.

Her extended family stepped in, welcoming her into their home permanently. She finally had what she had always needed—stability, love, and a place to belong.

Heavenly Father, we lift up children like this young girl—those who long for stability, love, and family. We pray that they may find safe places to heal and grow. Lord, we ask that You bring new houseparents to fill the empty homes in children’s ministries across the country—people willing to stand in the gap, offer security, and show love in the smallest of ways. We pray this in Jesus’ Name. Amen.