The Ruth Project vision of creating a refuge at The Farm for foster families has become a reality! This summer we introduced Family Support Events that gather foster moms, dads, and kids for meaningful connection, new friendships, and intentional fun. After one “Pause & Play,” one mom said it all when she shared, “I am feeling so blessed and refreshed.  I feel like I could take on the world!”  

Each event is meticulously planned to encourage families in multiple ways. At our last Pause & Play, moms were joined by “older and wiser” women (“Grandmas”) for a meal. After the moms openly shared personal joys and heartbreaks, these Grandmas shared their own struggles and how the Lord carried them through. What encouragement! Everyone left with new friends and renewed hope! Meanwhile, their kids learned all about becoming a new creation in Christ through the awe-inspiring journey of butterflies, which were then released into the Greenhouse. What a beautiful picture of God’s grace and mercy – we’re praying they remember Him every time they see a butterfly! 

Another highlight is “Grandpa’s Workshop,” a fun and lively woodworking experience for kids and their parents. With the help of Lowe’s in Sycamore, kids receive their very own tool kit to keep at The Farm for return visits! At the first Workshop, energetic pounding filled the air as kids quickly learned how to use their hammers under the direction of mentor dads and grandpas and other dedicated volunteers. Each child built Home Depot’s “fish tank” kit – complete with three tropical (wooden) fish! Afterward, all were individually awarded a Certificate of Achievement and a pin for their efforts. What a sense of accomplishment! 

Intentional, purposeful, and meaningful. This is how Ruth Project Family Events support foster families, spur them on, and help them feel like they too can “take on the world!”