january / february 2026
18
Here’ s what foster families receive: A brand-new construction home, all utilities paid. A family van, with expenses covered. The regular DHR foster care stipend. Ongoing check-ins and support from the Freedom Farm team.
Families meet regularly with the team to talk through challenges, support needs, and next steps.
Freedom Farm also partners with individuals, churches, and groups who help fill in the gaps, providing games, puzzles, vouchers for outings and experiences, and other forms of practical support.
THE HEART BEHIND FREEDOM FARM
Freedom Farm sits on land donated by Tuscaloosa surgeon Dr. Johnny Waits, following the personal tragedy of losing his son Jared in 2017 during a farming accident on the land. Beauty from ashes.
The first structure built on the property, a beautiful chapel, was built on the spot where Dr. Waits found Jared’ s body. The chapel now stands as a symbol of healing and hope.
Four homes are nearly complete, and 14 more homes will soon be under construction. Each will be part of a microcommunity with three to four other families, reinforcing the idea that foster care should never be done alone.
Freedom Farm desires to serve as an anchor, providing stability and safety when a child’ s world has felt anything but steady. It aims to be a compass, helping guide children toward healthy decisions, restored identity, and a hopeful future. And above all, Freedom Farm seeks to be a home where children are genuinely loved, valued, and reminded every day that God has big plans for their lives!
IS FOSTER CARE THE RIGHT NEXT STEP FOR YOUR FAMILY?
In short, Freedom Farm provides traditional foster care in partnership with Alabama DHR, and their greatest need is not land, buildings, or even funding.
Their greatest need is families that are willing to learn, show up, and explore whether becoming a foster family could be part of their story.
If this stirred even a small curiosity, your next step is a simple conversation.
Freedom Farm is happy to answer questions, share what foster care actually looks like, and welcome families to visit the property. Churches, volunteers, financial partners, and families exploring foster care are all welcome.