Building strong relationships takes many things, two of which are time and trust. One of the most exciting things that we see at Gateway Woods is when a child begins to develop a deep relationship with those around them, whether that is their houseparent, foster parent, teacher, counselor, or their biological parent. So often children come into our homes with what seem to be Jericho-like walls, so solidly built that it feels as though nothing can break through.

After finding out some good news, he actually asked his houseparent for a hug!    

Andre, is one such resident, who came in with an attitude that seemed impossible to penetrate. However, over time, and through many of your prayers, we have seen Andre begin to soften to the instructions of his houseparents, and to begin to develop trust with them. Not long ago, Andre showed a level of vulnerability and emotion that had never been seen from him before. After finding out some good news, he actually asked his houseparent for a hug!  

Andre still has a lot of work ahead of him, and he still has walls that need to be broken down. He still has a lot of anger issues and hurt from his past to deal with, but our hope is that the walls have begun to crumble. Please pray that the power of Christ and the things that he is learning could continue to change him!