Inspiring Foster Families: Brittany’s Story of Love and Support

Brittany's story: Growing up in a foster family

A childhood shaped by love

Brittany was just six months old when she was placed into foster care. What could have been a time of instability became the start of something beautiful. Welcomed into a family with two biological children, Brittany's foster parents wrapped her in love and gave her a true sense of belonging.

"She's supported me, given me everything I've needed, and loved me like I was her own child," Brittany says of her mum.

Now 20, Brittany was eventually adopted but her parents didn't stop there. They went on to foster many more babies, opening their home again and again to children in need of safety, comfort and care.

"They've been full-time foster carers my whole life," Brittany explains. That legacy shaped her not just practically, but spiritually and emotionally.

"It's been a really good environment to be in, just a house with parents who love everyone and anyone, regardless of their background or history."

Brittany shares fond memories of her late dad, who was a steady presence in her life.

"He set a really good example to everyone and loved my mum," she says with quiet admiration. 

His commitment to family, to service, and to love made a lasting impression.

Inspired to follow in their footsteps

Brittany speaks with deep conviction about the importance of short-term care.

"It's such a rewarding thing to do for yourself, for the community, and for the child involved. Just giving them that head start in life....showing them what a loving family can look like. You are impacting a little life and literally changing the course of their life for the better."

It's something she says she would consider doing herself one day.

"It's drawn me towards paediatrics and nursing."

Through it all, one Bible verse her mum gave her as a child has remained a guiding light:

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV).

"That's something I've held on to growing up," Brittany says. "Just knowing this is where I'm meant to be, and that I've got a big future ahead of me."

It's a promise that reminds her of God's faithfulness and the power of love in action, lived out through a family that opened its doors, again and again.

What is foster care?

Foster care offers children a safe and stable home when they can't live with their birth families. Whether for a few nights or many years, foster care provides the consistency, support and love that vulnerable children need during uncertain times.

For Brittany, who entered care as a baby, that love made all the difference.

"My mum supported me, gave me everything I needed, and loved me like I was her own."

It's that kind of nurturing environment that can help children not only heal but flourish.

Types of foster care

Every family is different and so is every fostering journey. Anglicare offers several types of foster care, making it possible for people to get involved in a way that suits their lifestyle and capacity.

• Crisis care provides urgent, short-term support when a child needs immediate safety.
• Short-term care supports children while decisions are made about their future, often with the goal of returning home.
• Permanent care offers a long-term, stable home until the child turns 18, giving them the consistency they need to flourish.
• Weekend and respite care provides regular breaks for other carers - typically one weekend per month.

Brittany's parents cared for many babies through short-term placements, showing each child what a loving home could look like.

"It's such a rewarding thing to do," she says. "I'd definitely consider doing short-term care myself in the future."

How foster families change lives for the better

Foster families have a ripple effect. When they open their homes to children in need, they create a space where healing and transformation can begin. Children gain stability, support, and the chance to thrive.

Brittany's journey is one example. After being welcomed into care at six months old, she grew up in a home marked by unconditional love, not only for her, but for every child who came through their door.

"It's drawn me towards paediatrics and nursing," she says, an outworking of the love she first received.

Fostering blesses the whole family, not just the child.

It's love in action and it changes lives, one child at a time.

Life in a loving foster family

Children in foster care need the same things every child needs: love, structure, and a sense of belonging.

In a foster family, life looks wonderfully normal with school drop-offs, sports games, family dinners, bedtime stories, and laughter around the table. These daily moments build trust and connection, helping children feel safe and seen.

Brittany's childhood was filled with these kinds of moments. Alongside learning how to cook, clean and care for younger children, she experienced the simple joys of being part of a loving, stable home.

That's what every child deserves.

How to become a foster carer: a guide for parents

Opening your home to a child in need is a big decision, but you don't have to do it alone.

Anglicare walks with every carer, providing guidance, wrap-around support, and ongoing training. From the first phone call to your first placement and beyond, you'll be supported every step of the way.

The hardest part is often just deciding to take that first step.

After that, you'll be equipped and encouraged to provide care that makes a lasting difference.

Throughout it all, Anglicare is here to listen, guide and walk with you.

Lessons for potential foster parents

If foster care has ever crossed your mind or stirred your heart, don't ignore that nudge.

There are so many ways to explore what fostering could look like for you. Start by reading stories like Brittany's, attend an information night, and connect with someone who's already walked the path.

You don't have to be perfect. You just need to be willing.

And if you're not ready to foster, you can still be part of the story by praying, supporting a carer, or advocating in your church community.

At Anglicare, we believe foster care is a calling, but also a community. No carer walks alone.

With the right support, you can help give children in need what every child deserves: love, stability and a place to belong.