One Yes at a Time

How the Newman Family Keeps Sibling Groups Together

Carl and Jennifer Newman did not expect their foster care journey to begin the way it did. They were still waiting for the call confirming their home was officially open when the phone rang. Four children needed a safe place. They said yes.

That first yes would become the beginning of something far bigger than they imagined.

Over the past two years, the Newmans have welcomed twenty-nine children into their home through Connected Families. Four were part of their first placement while Carl was still pastoring in South Arkansas. The remaining twenty-five children have come through their home in Central Arkansas, where they now serve in a house provided through a partnership between Rock Creek Church and ABCFM.

This home exists for one purpose: to help keep large sibling groups together.

“We have worked with sibling groups as large as nine and as small as two,” Carl shared. “The last thing you want is for children who have already experienced trauma to be separated from their brothers and sisters. If we can help keep them together, we will.”

Their home quickly became a place of stability and rest. Not because of its size alone, but because of the love, faith, and structure the Newmans bring to every child who enters their door. Their family rhythms are rooted in Scripture, especially the passage that has guided them for more than a decade: Deuteronomy 6.

Carl describes it this way:

“It is supposed to be a natural part of everyday life. Teaching, talking about spiritual things, helping children know the truth that sets them free. That is why we do what we do.”

Their yes is not abstract. It comes with long nights, full schedules, and a willingness to show up again and again. But it has also brought joy, healing, and measurable impact.

One of their most memorable placements was a sibling group of nine. The children had been separated among multiple homes for a few days. The Newmans opened their home so all nine could be together under one roof until they were safely reunified with their family. Moments like that — where a yes preserves connection and stability — reflect exactly why this home exists.

In addition to fostering, Carl now serves as a caseworker with Connected Families. He sees the work from both sides and carries a deep conviction about what drives this ministry:

“The message of God’s love needs to reach the vulnerable. Lives are changed through the work of Christ shown through the obedience of His people. Until Christ returns, we must join together to serve the brokenhearted, the children, and their families who are hurting.”

Their yes has kept siblings together.
Their yes has offered stability for children with nowhere else to go.
Their yes has reflected the love of Christ in tangible, everyday ways.

As Carl said at the Gala for Hope, “Thank you for joining us as we say yes to the mission of loving God and loving His children.”

Their story is a reminder that one yes can open the door for many. And in the Newmans’ home, one yes has changed everything for twenty-nine children.