We learned of R's existence just a week before his 16th birthday. As an "aged out" orphan in Eastern Europe, R was about to lose his chance at a family to love him and instead find himself fighting to survive in a culture that creates every disadvantage for the orphan. We had a decision to make, so we stepped out in faith and filed the necessary paperwork to open the door for us to adopt R.
In the meantime we decided to host him in our home for 10 weeks this summer. R fit in so well and seemed to attach very quickly to our family. He especially bonded with our 2 year old son, Asher. It became quite clear that God had led us to this boy to show him his value and love him as our own. When we had to send R back we felt like a part of our family was missing. Our home feels emptier without his sweet and energetic presence.
Because R is already 16, we don't have years to fundraise. He is already on his own in Ukraine without anyone looking out for him. The statistics stacked against him are scary. Further he is behind academically and needs to catch up. We want to bring him home this winter, but we cannot do it alone.
Our prayer is that by inviting you into this process, you will see yourself as part of the community we hope to build around our children as they grow up no longer as orphans, but as beloved & chosen children of God. Your help would be the greatest gift to our family!
