Simply put – The Ruth Project is bursting at the seams!  The number of foster families we support has increased 270% since 2021.  We need space – lots of it – to gather families for encouragement.  True to our vision, the Elgin Storehouse already abundantly provides all the tangible provisions families need to foster well, and community connections are being forged between families, within the community, and through partnerships with local businesses.    

Yet we have only begun to scratch the surface of providing ongoing support!    

The Farm will accommodate so many more of the 7300 foster families in the Chicagoland area providing refuge for over 18,000 children.  It is already a place where parents are coming to take a breath, where kids can be kids in wide open spaces, and where all can be encouraged in ways they cannot experience anywhere else.  

“The Farm is the pivotal next step of our vision and mission at The Ruth Project,” says Tammy McMahan. “Ongoing support is our differentiator from every other organization. We deeply understand the foster journey having personally walked through the joys and heartbreak of caring for children. The Farm gives us a place to build relationship and share hope in real and intimate ways.” 

Our “bursting at the seams” is a reflection of how The Ruth Project is truly meeting the needs of children and their foster families.  Yet with this incredible growth comes the reality of increased financial needs and operational costs.  We are currently in great need.  We’re praying that out of the Lord’s abundance to the volunteers and supporters He has brought to The Ruth Project, He will also provide for our additional financial needs.