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Mission is central to the life of Caroline Stanfill, who has decided to become a foster parent after years of discernment. Stanfill, who has an extensive background working with special education, religious communities, and social ministries, says her faith has motivated her to embrace fostering. "We are all one family and we are our brother’s keeper," she explained, noting that fostering is both a challenging and beautiful experience.
In 2022, more than 368,500 children were documented in foster care, with an average stay of nearly two years. Stanfill is among many Catholics collaborating with organizations such as Catholic Charities to become foster parents, providing safety and care for children in transitional phases.
Initially hesitant about her ability to foster as a single person, Stanfill finds support from Catholic Charities reassuring. "Catholic Charities is wonderful at training and there’s so much support," she stated. Currently residing in Blue Ridge, Virginia, with her third foster child, Stanfill has remained in contact with previous foster children and remains open to an uncertain future with her current foster daughter.
Other foster parents, such as Ellen Bright and Joan Flynn from Hanover, Pennsylvania, have collectively fostered over 40 children. Their experience highlights both the challenges and joys of fostering, from addressing neglected needs to celebrating first-time experiences with their foster children. "It's really nice to be a part of that," Bright reflected.
Kat and Adam Herrick, foster parents from Scottsdale, Arizona, foster teenagers who are also refugees, offering them a chance for better opportunities in the U.S. "I think people are surprised by how much it takes to become a foster parent," Kat Herrick remarked, emphasizing the dedication required in this endeavor. They cherish providing a sense of family to these children and hope their own son, Garin, will grow surrounded by sibling-like bonds.
Reflecting on their role, Herrick states, "I think it’s just living our faith," indicating their commitment to the teachings of the church through fostering.
