Isaiah 117 House • Changing the Way Foster Begins

photos courtesy Tara Thornton

In 2021, Tara Thornton found out multiple kids had been sleeping in the Child Protective Services offices for over 100 days straight, right here in Georgetown, while awaiting foster placement. She and other community members began to ask the question, “What if there was a home?”

While the team was trying to come up with a way to provide a home, Tara was invited to a kick-off event for a new Isaiah 117 House in Waco. After hearing about this new non-profit, Tara was ready to bring it to Williamson County.

What services does Isaiah 117 House provide?

Founded in Carter County, Tennessee in 2017, Isaiah 117 House provides physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children and teens who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect and are waiting on placement with a foster or kinship family. Every Isaiah 117 House provides brand-new clothing, toiletries, school supplies, bedding, and other necessary items to make it easier for a foster family to welcome the child into their home. In October, Isaiah 117 House began serving in Williamson County by providing clothing and meals to kids entering foster care.

Tara says, "We do not yet have our physical house in Williamson County. Therefore, we have been focusing on raising awareness in the community, building relationships, and being a blessing to our Child Protective Services department." Stories that are most impactful come from CPS workers who feel cared for and appreciated. Their jobs are very difficult and every month volunteers deliver treats, encouragement, and a listening ear.

Future plans for Isaiah 117?

Our primary goal right now is to begin construction on the Isaiah 117 House. They hope to start that during the first half of 2024.

Where can we see you around Georgetown this year?

We will be at the Downtown Christmas Stroll on December 1 and 2.

We invite individuals of all ages, families, businesses, groups, and churches to join our next Expansion Meeting (1-hour volunteer meeting open to the public) January 7 at 4pm at First Baptist Church. We will plan for community awareness events, the Hot Chocolate Stand Challenge, monthly CPS appreciation events, and more.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

We love to share our story—invite us to your groups to speak about the mission of Isaiah 117 House.

•  Donations: We’d love to stock our Giving Room with needed items for kids entering care.

•  Become a “sock buddy”: Walk the journey with us by becoming a monthly giver as we change the way foster care begins. isaiah117house.com/sockbuddy

•  Hot Chocolate Stand Challenge: Host a hot chocolate stand at your house or business in January.

Visit Isaiah117House.com for more information.