Called to Serve

For many, the thought of taking care of six children can seem like an absolutely impossible task. For Aaron and Andrea Moore, they’ve found it to be their calling.

When Aaron and Andrea first began to foster, they only planned to welcome one boy between the ages of 3 and 5 years old into their home at a time. These plans changed the minute they fostered a young girl who was separated from her siblings.

“We’re both from large families,” Aaron explains. “I have a very close relationship with my brothers and sister. I can’t imagine being separated from my siblings, and not being allowed to grow up with them.”

With that thought in mind, Aaron and Andrea made several changes to maximize space in their home. Soon after, the family grew by four as they welcomed the young girl’s siblings into their home. While the Moore’s have handled this change with grace, it has not come without its challenges.

“Laundry has become insurmountable!” Aaron jokes. “This is about as clean as the house gets.”

Since they began fostering three years ago, the Moore’s have fostered a total of 12 children. While many children would be upset about having to share their parent’s attention, their biological children Troy (9) and Maranda (6) have become two of foster care’s strongest (and youngest!) supporters.

“We treat all the children who come into our home just like our own children. They may only be with us for a short time, but while they are here, they are family,” Andrea says of their philosophy.

One of their most cherished moments as foster parents illustrates the lasting impact they have on children in their care. One Father’s Day, the cheerful voice of a young boy greeted Aaron on the phone. The voice belonged to one of their previous foster children, who wanted to wish Aaron a Happy Father’s Day. The child still remembered the kindness of the Moore’s even after being successfully reunified with his family.

The life of a foster parent does not go without difficulties. You need a strong support system, and an unlimited supply of patience. However, as Aaron and Andrea will tell you, it is the smiles and a warm hug from a child who used to be too scared to say “hello” that makes it all worth it.