Raelynn and Justin McElroy began their foster care journey almost as soon as they were married. Raelynn’s aunt and uncle were foster parents at the time, caring for a four-year-old boy, Jackson. When it became apparent that reunification with Jackson’s birth family was not going to be an option, they found themselves having to decide whether or not they should adopt him, given their age.
Our family preservation services help Kansas families who are in crisis and are at imminent risk of being separated. Often feeling overwhelmed and not knowing where to turn, our family preservation team provides individualized services directly in the family's home.
Edwina Marowell has always possessed a huge heart. Though she became one of our foster parents in 2018, she recalls feeling the desire to care for children well before that. Over the years, she has stepped up in big ways to help children whenever and however she could.
After raising their own children and later housing eleven foreign exchange students over the years, the Livingstons both agreed it was time to take a break from caretaking. Helen was entering retirement and they planned to travel and simply enjoy these years. Yet, something was missing and they began to miss children in their home. Exploring options, it became clear to them that respite care might be the perfect answer.
After 15 years as foster parents, Ryan Bales and Amy Setzer-Bales have experienced their share of joys and trials. Through all of it, they have remained committed to showing unconditional love to the children in their care and to each other.
