Episode Summary:
In this episode, Pastor Addison Roberts sits down with Maryanne O’Neil, a foster and kinship care parent from Grace Community Church, in honor of Foster Care Awareness Month. Maryanne shares how her family stepped into foster care unexpectedly but wholeheartedly, welcoming baby Chloe into their home. From the challenges of trauma-informed care to the deep joys of adoption, this conversation explores how Christians can embody the gospel by supporting vulnerable children—and those who care for them.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
What kinship care is and how it fits into the foster care system
How Maryanne’s family was called—unexpectedly—into foster care
Why community support can make or break a foster parent’s experience
Tangible ways you can support foster families, even if you can’t foster
The emotional realities of saying goodbye to a foster child
How foster care reflects the gospel's call to love the least of these
Why being trauma-informed is essential for supporting children in care
Key Quotes:
“Foster care is not for everyone—but everyone can do something.” — Maryanne O’Neil
“She came to us on a rainy day with no hat, no socks, and a half can of formula. But God knew she was meant for us.” — Maryanne O’Neil
“If foster families don’t have support, they may only step forward once.” — Maryanne O’Neil
“There has never been an accidental adoption—every adoption is a choice, just like God chose us.” — Pastor Addison Roberts
“The impact you make on a child today can shape the rest of their life, even if you don’t see it right away.” — Maryanne O’Neil
Ways to Get Involved / Resources Mentioned:
Organizations & Services:
COBYS Family Services – Local foster care and family support
Foster Care Closet – Lancaster-area chapter launching soon
Practical Support Opportunities:
Donate baby gear, cribs, or clothing
Provide meals during transitions or illness
Offer babysitting or a few hours of relief care
Invite foster children into your holiday or family traditions
Join or start a foster family support group at your church
Receive trauma-informed care training to better serve families
About the Know and Follow Podcast:
The Know and Follow podcast is a production of Grace Community Church of Willow Street, located at 212 Peach Bottom Road in Willow Street, Pennsylvania. Join us for weekend services on Saturdays at 6pm, Sundays at 8am, 9:15am, and 11am.
Learn more at gccws.net.
