In 2016, Rachel and Corey Andre became foster parents as they began kinship placement for a teenaged relative. Since that time, they have fostered 13 children and have grown their family through a successful process of adopting five children in the early weeks of October.
The Choice to Foster and Adopt
“I have always wanted to become a foster parent, even as a little kid,” Rachel shared. When the couple first began their journey, Corey was convinced that he wanted to move forward with an adoption only. However, after discussing the different options, Rachel and Corey decided to become licensed to foster and adopt.
Rachel is grateful they decided to expand their previous plans. “If we had chosen to only do adoption, we would have only one of our five children.”
Guided by Faith
When it comes to fostering a child, the Andre’s cannot say no. Their perspective is, “give it to God and let him decide who comes to our home.” Being open to the possibility of taking in any child, either foster or potentially adoptive, has helped the Andre’s faith grow. They focus on their purpose by following God’s will within each child’s life.
The Andre’s find joy in watching each child become a part of the family. This joy is compounded by seeing the changes and growth that the children experience as they realize they are safe and loved.
Building Relationships
Rachel and Corey are dedicated to the well-being and success of every child they care for. They always work in developing solid relationships with the families that will be caring for the children next. Whether it is the biological parents, a kinship placement or another foster home, the Andre’s are always looking for ways to be supportive.
Many people who are interested in becoming foster parents are concerned about getting too attached to the children they care for. Rachel and Corey acknowledge that it’s difficult to say goodbye, but they know attachment is necessary to give the children what they need. When it’s time to say goodbye, “We focus on what we have learned and how we have grown from it,” said Rachel.
