Cliff and Rebekah’s story began long before they welcomed their first foster child. Rebekah grew up surrounded by siblings and cousins who were adopted through foster care, and she understood the need from a young age. Even before she and Cliff were married, they agreed that fostering was something they wanted to be part of their future.

In 2019 Cliff and Rebekah became licensed foster parents with Children’s Hope Alliance (CHA), and in 2020 they welcomed their first child through foster care. Throughout the licensing process and their early placements, CHA’s foster care team supported them every step of the way. They answered questions at all hours, offered reassurance when things felt uncertain, and helped Cliff and Rebekah move through this new experience with confidence.

One of the most meaningful moments in Cliff and Rebekah’s foster journey came when they officially adopted their son Eli. Their entire family joined them at the courthouse, and Eli’s teacher made it possible for his classmates to watch the celebration online. The day was filled with joy, and it was so special to Eli that he asks to celebrate it every year. CHA’s foster care team was overjoyed to see that the ongoing support we provided helped lead to a beautiful adoption, giving Eli a permanent and loving family.

Fostering has shaped their family in beautiful and lasting ways. Because they fostered before having biological children, their kids have only ever known a home that welcomes additional little ones. During quieter seasons, they often ask when new friends will be arriving. It can sometimes be challenging to help young children understand why some kids cannot stay forever, but Cliff and Rebekah see fostering as a calling for their whole family.

Their foster journey has taught them to live with open hands. They welcome every child knowing that the stay might be short or long, and that sometimes it may last a lifetime. They believe that healthy attachment is essential for a child’s development, even though forming bonds can make goodbyes painful. Their faith motivates them as they co parent, support families who need extra help, and show compassion to the children placed in their home. Our foster care team’s support has helped them stay grounded and continue loving each child wholeheartedly.

Cliff and Rebekah hope to continue fostering even after their own children are grown. In their words, “We know the need, so how do we not help.”

If you’d like to learn more about fostering, we’d love to connect with you: www.childrenshopealliance.org/fostertoday.