For some, the complexity of maneuvering through the foster care system is enough to scare them off. Tanner House and his wife shared those concerns ever since they began to consider adoption. Although, they didn’t allow those fears to stop them from pursuing their dream of starting a family with a child in need.

A Good Start

Their journey began in 2012 when the couple decided that they were prepared to start a family. Tanner’s wife had considered adoption ever since she was in high school. Tanner on the other hand had never thought about adoption but didn’t rule it out. They shared similar concerns about the fostering process in the US. They feared becoming too attached to their placements and navigating the broken system. So, they decided to adopt internationally.

Attempting to Adopt Internationally

The couple spent 2 years trying to adopt in Ethiopia. Unfortunately, the process proved to be lengthy and expensive. After those 2 years, the couple didn’t seem to be going anywhere and decided to cease their efforts of adopting internationally and decided to become foster parents.

Leap of Faith

In 2014 the couple took a leap of faith and became licensed foster parents. Shortly after, they received a 2-day old girl as their first placement. In the span of 4 years, they received 6 different placements. The couple would end up adopting four of their placements. Each of those kids came from different backgrounds and experienced different things. Without hesitation, the couple supported each one of them the best they could. They learned so much from interacting with caseworkers and listening to their children’s stories.

Maneuvering Through the Foster Care System- a Smooth Adoption

According to Tanner, two of the adoptions went smoothly. They didn’t have much push back and were able to go through the process fairly easily. But, their other two kids had different stories. They fought for them and went through the long processes of adoption. The couple knew that their kids had been in tough situations and although they couldn’t relate they wanted to ensure that they were loved and given a good home.

Get Uncomfortable

Working through the system taught the couple many lessons. They learned that they have to be more open to new opportunities. At first, both were hesitant to foster because of all of the negative things they heard. But it wasn’t until they experienced it themselves that they formed their own opinion and made their own personal connections. They also learned that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to life-changing opportunities. It’s through change and motivation they were able to push their lives to the next level. Being open to change gave them 4 beautiful children and completed their family.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, we want to thank the House family for sharing their experience maneuvering through the foster care system For those who are in the process of fostering to adopt, Foster Love - Together We Rise offers free adoption day photography through our Framing Forever program. Click here for more information!