In this episode of Torch Talk, Lindsey Chupp sits down with Larry Yoder, co-executive director of Pure Gift of God, to talk about adoption, foster care, and the long-term support families need beyond the moment a child comes home. Larry shares both his personal connection to adoption and the story behind Pure Gift of God, an organization created to remove financial barriers and provide ongoing resources for adoptive and foster families.

The conversation explores the realities many families face after adoption, including trauma, behavioral challenges, and the need for community and education. Larry explains how Pure Gift of God has expanded its mission over the years, from adoption grants to support groups, parent training, therapy services, and the Halo intensive program that equips both parents and children with tools to heal and grow together.

Larry also walks through the different adoption paths, including domestic infant adoption, foster-to-adopt, and international adoption, offering practical insight into costs, timelines, and common misconceptions. Throughout the episode, he emphasizes that adoption is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey that requires support, patience, and a willingness to learn.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The mission and evolution of Pure Gift of God
• Why adoption support is just as crucial after placement
• Trauma-informed parenting and the Halo program
• The realities of foster care and adoption in Ohio
• How families can find help, community, and resources
• Ways individuals and businesses can support adoptive and foster families

This episode offers an honest, compassionate look at adoption and foster care and a reminder that no family should have to walk that journey alone.