Hernando couple ‘all in’ on fostering kids, advocate the journey for others

By Andy Bell

Once Patrick and Chauncey Parsons, Hernando residents, decided to become foster care parents – inspired by many experienced ones in their church – they were, “All in,” said Chauncey, who recently started as a Case Worker with Apelah.

The Parsons’ commitment included moving their family, which included two teens, into a bigger house with more bedrooms before starting the process.

A decade later, Chauncey reflects that with each of the six children they fostered, the learning curve necessary to meet the challenges were tied to passion and prayers.

“Being able to provide a safe and loving environment for children who are unable to live with their bio families due to circumstances like abuse, neglect or family instability was and is something that is near and dear to my heart,” she said.

In fact, the joyous experiences emboldened her to earn two degrees in social work, and later, the adoption of five-year-old Rylee, originally a “safe haven” infant abandoned at a hospital.

“She’s sassy, very kind and compassionate,” Chauncey said about their daughter. “Every day I look at Rylee and I thank God that He placed her in my home, and it was for a reason.”

Becoming foster care parents is rigorous and an “emotional roller coaster,” she advised. 

But “definitely worth it.”

She would encourage any adult considering becoming a foster parent, “To go for it.”

“People will say that we are such a blessing to the children, but really it’s more that they are a blessing to us,” Chauncy said.

To learn more about how you can become a foster care parent, visit apelah.org

Andy Bell is Communications Coordinator for Apelah.