Apache Junction Couple’s 20-Year Journey: Fostering 13 Children and Building a Forever Family

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz. — Laura and Vance Friend, a devoted couple from Apache Junction, have fostered 13 children over 11 years, transforming their lives and the lives of many vulnerable young people. Their journey began in 2004 when they recognized the urgent need for foster families in their community.

Initially aiming to adopt, the Friends quickly understood the broader necessity for foster care. “We just saw a huge need for kids that needed a place to be,” Laura explained, highlighting their commitment to provide a safe environment for children in difficult situations.

Throughout their fostering experience, they welcomed not only teenagers but also sibling groups into their home. Vance noted the unique relationships they built, saying, “None of the kids are the same.” He emphasized the importance of connections formed not only with foster children but also between them and their biological children.

Many of the children they fostered have remained in contact with the family. “Our youngest that we adopted is 25, and they’re all the way up to their 30s,” Vance added, showcasing the lasting impact of their nurturing environment.

The Friends are advocates for fostering, addressing the pressing need for more foster families. “There are over 10,000 kids that need homes,” Vance said. He encouraged families to explore fostering even if they feel unprepared, suggesting they take initial classes to learn more.

Chris Friend, one of their adopted children, reflected on the benefits of being part of the family. “We’ve made so many memories together,” he shared, illustrating the positive experiences foster care can create.

Continuing the legacy, their biological son, Lucus Friend, and his wife, Chelsea, are now foster parents as well. Lucus emphasized the importance of communicating unconditional support to their foster children, saying, “They always have a place here.” Chelsea echoed this sentiment, stating that loving foster children contributes positively to their development. “Kids cannot have too much love,” she asserted.

Laura offered advice to prospective foster parents: perfection isn’t required, only the willingness to offer love. The Arizona Department of Child Safety provides resources for those interested in becoming foster parents, emphasizing that every bit of love shared can change a child’s future.