Cottage Parent Q&A

At Hope, our Cottage Parents are the heart of our mission — men and women who step into the gap for vulnerable children by creating a safe, Christ-centered home.

From cooking breakfast to leading family devotions, from doctor’s visits to homework help, Cottage Parents provide the kind of everyday stability that gives children hope for a brighter future.

They live in the cottages alongside the children, modeling what a loving family looks like and reminding each child that, no matter their past, they are deeply loved by God.

What does being a cottage parent mean to you?

For Amy, a Cottage Mom in Florida, the role is about standing in the gap:

“Cottage parenting to me means hugs and tears through trauma and heartache. It means pointing each boy and girl to Christ and letting them know that no matter how many people come and go in their lives, HE will never leave them.”

Haley, another Cottage Mom, shares:

“To me, being a cottage parent means being a part of God’s commandment to take care of the fatherless and taking care of His children that have no place to go or no one to turn to. We take care of their physical needs and point them to Christ. ”

Her husband Joey adds:

“Being a houseparent means welcoming children from unstable situations and raising them in a loving, stable environment. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the daily impact we have on their lives. Our goal is to help raise high-functioning, Jesus-loving adults. Sharing this journey with my wife is a true blessing.”

Rachelle, Cottage Mom of the Brewer Cottage in Honduras says:

“Being a cottage parent means filling in the gap for the family during their time in need. We are not their parents but are thankful to be the “aunt and uncle” and have the chance to influence the kids through God’s word and encouragement on a daily basis.  ”

Joy and Challenge Hand in Hand

Every child comes from a different background, often carrying deep pain and trauma.

Lace, a Cottage Mom, explains:

“When a child enters our home their world is flipped upside down for the better. We teach them that God loves them and has a purpose for their life. The most rewarding part is when you see kids come to know Christ and dive into His Word. The transformations we see are amazing.”

Her husband Julian calls the journey “sacred”:

“These children have experienced more pain than most can imagine. Grace meets every meltdown, every sleepless night, and every setback with patience and peace. My home is not perfect, but it is filled with grace.”

Why Cottage Parents Matter

Cottage Parents are more than caregivers — they are living reminders of God’s steadfast love. They provide not just meals and homework help, but also healing, hope, and the model of a healthy family rooted in faith.

And while the challenges are real, the reward is eternal: seeing children who once felt unwanted begin to thrive, dream, and believe again.