In a small East Texas town called Possum Trot, Reverend Wc Martin and his wife Donna felt called to help children in need. In the late 1990s, the couple began adopting youth from the foster system, many of whom were considered difficult placements. Donna, in particular, felt compassion for these kids, having lost her own mother, who left behind 18 children of her own.

While Wc took some time to come around, in the end, he supported Donna’s mission. Together, they opened their homes and hearts to four kids, including a teenager named Terri, who was escaping severe abuse. Donna hoped to give all these youth comfort, yet Terri in particular faced immense struggles and needed patience as she learned to heal.

Donna and Wc’s example ultimately inspired others in their congregation. Before they knew it, 22 families had joined in adopting 77 children from foster care around town. It was...