How Dwell’s Support Made Adoption Possible

Erin’s journey began in 2009, when she welcomed two siblings into her home through foster care. While reunification was initially the goal, it soon became clear that the children could not return to their biological family, and Erin formally adopted her oldest children in 2010.

In 2021, Erin’s journey took another transformative turn. She received a call from a prison ministry about a newborn who needed a home. Though reunification had initially been the plan, it became evident that it would not be an option. In April 2024, Erin finalized the adoption of Baylea, her third child. While adoption was not the life plan she had imagined, Erin reflects on the experience with gratitude, knowing that God's grace and perfect timing guided her every step.

One of the most challenging aspects of Erin’s adoption journey was the financial burden. As a single mother, the expenses of fostering, adopting, and caring for a child were overwhelming. Adoption fees, legal costs, and childcare-related expenses added up quickly. Because Erin was adopting from a prison ministry, some typical resources and grants were not available to her. However, Erin’s story was heard by Dwell, and the organization provided her with an adoption grant that alleviated much of the financial strain.

For Erin, receiving this grant was a blessing that allowed her to focus on the most important thing—her family. “The Dwell grant lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” she says. “It allowed me to focus on the joy of bringing Baylea home without worrying about how I would cover the costs. It was a reminder that God provides exactly what we need, at just the right time.”

Erin’s story is a powerful testament to the impact that adoption grants can have on a family. Without the support of donors, Dwell’s ability to provide financial assistance would not be possible.

This Giving Tuesday, you have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of families like Erin’s. Every donation helps fund adoption grants that relieve the financial stress of adopting.

Join us in supporting families like Erin’s. Together, we can change lives.

Donate today to support Dwell’s adoption grants: dwellorphancare.org/givingtuesday2024

Jennifer Lake