This month, Champions for the Brokenhearted is sharing and highlighting God’s heart for the orphan. In this compelling interview, Joshua and Rebekah Weigel join Nick to shed light on the urgent need for foster care and adoption in the United States. They share their personal journey of becoming foster and adoptive parents, highlighting the shocking statistics of over 400,000 children waiting for a foster family and more than 100,000 children waiting for a forever home. They also emphasize the crucial role of the church in addressing this crisis and encourage churches across the nation to step up and make a difference.

The Wiegels’ passion for this cause led them to create the film “Possum Trot,” which tells the inspiring story of a small church in Shelby County, Texas, called Possum Trot, which adopted 77 of the most difficult-to-place children, effectively emptying the foster system in their county. This church’s powerful example demonstrates the impact that churches can have when they prioritize caring for vulnerable children and families. The interview calls for a renewed focus on the needs of orphans, widows, and the marginalized in America, urging the church to reclaim its role as a beacon of hope and compassion in society.

The Truth Is…

With the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade, it is expected that there will be fewer abortions, leading to an increase in the number of babies put up for adoption. As the Church, we cannot address the issue of abortion without also addressing the importance of adoption. There is a prevailing misconception that orphans in America are not a significant problem due to our government-funded foster care system. However, we know that this couldn’t be further from the truth. In addition to the 100,000 children who are in need of permanent families, an estimated 700,000 minors experience homelessness at some point in a given year. These children often run away or avoid entering the foster system altogether due to previous abusive experiences.

Shockingly, more than a third of foster children and youth experience more than two placements each year, resulting in their living arrangements changing at least twice annually. Furthermore, in 2020 alone, over 20,000 youth left foster care without being reunited with their biological parents or finding another permanent home.

It is essential to understand that these children do not merely need a place to stay; they need a true home and a loving family. They yearn for the care and support of nurturing mothers and fathers.

What Can I Do?

In the face of this crisis, we are blessed to have organizations like Care Portal and Lifeline stepping up to provide resources and support to families who are willing to open their hearts and homes to these vulnerable children. Care Portal connects local churches with the needs of foster children and their families, bridging the gap and making a tangible difference. Lifeline offers guidance and assistance throughout the entire adoption process, helping families navigate the complexities and challenges with compassion and care.

View the needs in your area:

Here’s a staggering fact to consider: There are approximately 380,000 churches in America. If just one or two families in each church were to make the life-changing decision to foster or adopt, supported by their church community, we could provide a loving family for every child in the foster system. We, as the Church, are the solution to this crisis.

Until Next Time

Let us embrace this urgent call, motivated by love, and work together to transform the lives of these vulnerable children. Through our collective efforts, we can rewrite the narrative and create a brighter future for those who long for stability, love, and a place to call home. Together, we can bring hope and healing to a nation in need.