The impact of refugee foster care

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Every child has the right to a nurturing, protective family that can support their physical and emotional needs. Many orphans and vulnerable children in our world cannot live with their families of origin because of abandonment, migration, war, abuse, disease, or systemic problems within the country.

Bethany Christian Services views institutional care, such as orphanages, as a last resort for children. This is why international foster care programs are so important. These programs identify and train local foster parents who take these special children into their homes. Families who care for children receive training and support, and are often provided access to doctors, therapists, schools, and other community resources as available to meet the needs of the children.

Roger and Liz Bultman of Ada have been fostering children through Bethany for years. They feel it is their calling to be loving parents to those in need. It's a journey that they never knew would end up as fulfilling as it has been.  Please note, the Bultmans are foster parents, these children have not been formally adopted.

For more information on Bethany Christian Services and their foster care programs visit www.bethany.org.