When Sol crossed the U.S. border, she knew little English. But she just earned all A’s on her school report card. She’s in eighth grade. She lives with a foster family, the Hazeltons. To celebrate her good grades, the Hazeltons gave her a pet dog.
“They helped me a lot,” says Sol.
Thousands of immigrants arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border every day. Many of them are minors. In 2023, authorities reported 140,000 unaccompanied minors (kids without guardians) at the Mexican border. When those kids arrive, they need more than housing. They need families.
In Miami, Florida, Mónica Farías leads a program to help these children. “It’s amazing the quantity of children who are coming,” she says. “We’re actively recruiting parents.”
Politicians often argue about how to handle the immigration crisis. But to the Hazelton family, it’s not about politics. It’s about helping people in need. The Hazeltons live in a suburb of Miami, Florida. Over the last four years, they have fostered immigrant children. They remember what Jesus said about helping others. When we help the helpless, it’s like helping Christ. (Matthew 25:40)
“Our faith inspired us,” says Andy Hazelton.
Many foster children return to their families quickly. The Hazeltons once fostered two teen brothers from Afghanistan. When they returned to their family, their mother hugged Mrs. Hazelton for 10 minutes. She sobbed with thankfulness.
But some children stay in the foster program for years. Sol’s father disappeared on a journey across the desert. She doesn’t know when, or if, he will return.
Many of these children have sad pasts. Foster families give them a place of safety and stability. In a loving family, kids can learn the customs of a new country. They can get used to strict school routines and air conditioning. They can also learn English.
When we were helpless, God adopted us into His family. We can show that same love to others in need. Can you think of ways to help others in the new year?
Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me. — Matthew 18:5
