In this inspiring episode, we explore a powerful story of redemption through an interview with Bethany, a dedicated foster mom, and Jaliyah, the biological mother of Bethany's former foster children. Their journey has been marked by many challenges, but their unwavering commitment to each other has led to a heartwarming reunion.

Jaliyah worked incredibly hard to regain custody of her children, showing immense dedication and perseverance throughout the process. Bethany's intentional effort to maintain a supportive relationship with Jaliyah played a crucial role in this family’s story. Her consistent presence and encouragement were vital in helping Jaliyah achieve her goal of reuniting with all her children.

This episode underscores the significant impact that positive relationships between foster and biological families can have on the well-being of children. Tune in to hear how Bethany and Jaliyah’s shared dedication has paved the way for healing and togetherness, and learn why maintaining these connections, when safe, can be so beneficial for everyone involved.

Episode Highlights:

• How Bethany Got Started in Foster Care
• Jaliyah’s Childhood & Upbringing
• Forming Relationships with Biological Families
• Going against the grain
• Reunification & Redemption

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook

In this episode of Restoried, we introduce our newest team member, Larkyn Forchione, the new Youth Empowerment Coordinator. Larkyn shares her journey as a single foster and adoptive mom, how God led her to Hope Bridge, and her passion for serving young people impacted by foster care.

We also announce the transition from our former "Aged Out Youth Program" to the newly named Youth Empowerment Program. This change reflects our commitment to supporting youth and young adults impacted by the foster care system through individualized support, life-skills development, mentorship, healthy community, and faith-based encouragement.

Join us as we discuss the vision behind the program, the needs facing system-impacted young adults, and how Hope Bridge is working to empower the next generation, one relationship at a time.

Episode Highlights:

• Meet Larkyn
• Youth Empowerment Program
• Mentorship
• Foster Care
• Adoption

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Youth Empowerment Program Flyer
• Volunteer/Become a Mentor
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook

In this episode of Restoried, we are introduced to Shelly Mast, the newest county coordinator serving Holmes County and the surrounding area, and a longtime foster mom herself.

Shelly shares her journey into foster care, which began in 2020 during the chaos of COVID, and how God used both the beauty and heartbreak of that season to shape her faith and calling. She opens up about the challenges of foster care, including medical needs, reunification, and the emotional weight of loving children through uncertain outcomes.

Out of her experience, Shelly co-founded Project 1018, focused on practical and relational support for foster families. Now, she brings that same heart into her work with Hope Bridge, helping churches and communities step into meaningful care for vulnerable children and families.

This episode is a simple but powerful introduction to Shelly’s story, and the heart behind her work: showing up, staying faithful, and loving kids and families in the middle of hard stories.

Episode Highlights:

• Meet Shelly Mast
• County Coordinator
• Foster Care
• Project 1018
• Church Mobilization
• Community

Find More on Hope Bridge:

• Project 1081
• Visit Our Website
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on Facebook