Shared by a parent of a Kids Hope USA student
A few years ago, my husband and I chose to move our family to Michigan. This move was a difficult decision, but we felt God calling us. The move was especially hard on our 5-year-old son Ryan as he struggled with change and leaving his grandparents who played an active role in our lives babysitting, family nights and holidays. This changed our son.
When I heard about Kids Hope USA, I saw it as an opportunity for Ryan to build a potential surrogate grandparent. My husband and I prayed for a good fit, and God delivered. Ryan and Mr. Steve became fast friends. Mr. Steve became that grandparent and role model who Ryan was craving.
Week by week, we started to see a change in Ryan’s demeanor and happiness, especially on Tuesdays when he shared lunch, conversation, and games with Mr. Steve. It was exactly what Ryan needed.
What Kids Hope USA has provided for Ryan over the past 5 years is more than we ever expected. Ryan has excelled in his schooling; his happiness and confidence has improved and his love for Jesus has grown.
We do our best to expose our children to the teachings in the Bible, prayer, and a relationship with Jesus. But this past week at Camp Geneva, Ryan shared with us that he accepted Jesus into his heart as his Lord and Savior. As a parent, that is the greatest gift!