Linda and Stanley Walker became foster parents for Murphy-Harpst Children’s Centers Specialized Foster Care Program beginning in 2016. The couple was extremely active during pre-service training and expressed a deep love for children who have been exposed to traumatic backgrounds and situations. The couple was determined to make a difference in the lives of each child placed in their home and care. They were committed to helping kids return back home to their parents and/or families well-rounded and more stable than ever before. The couple soon realized that GOD had a different plan, as children placed in their homes at times were not able to return home and would later become available for adoption.  With the deep love and bond they developed for each child, Linda and Stanley Walker committed to adopting every child in their home that was not able to return to their family of origin.

As the years went on, Linda and Stanley Walker began accepting large sibling groups into their home in an attempt to ensure siblings remained together while in care. The family has adopted a total of 10 children derived from 3 sets of sibling groups and 1 individual child. In addition, Linda and Stanley Walker are in the process of adopting an 8-year-old foster child whom their adult daughter is fostering. This child refers to Linda and Stanley as her grandparents. Unfortunately, she was not able to return back home to her birth family and the Walkers stood up, stating “We will adopt her, she is our granddaughter.” The Walkers have purchased a 4600 square-foot home and a large van to comfortably accommodate their family. The children are all loved, doing well in school and involved in extracurricular activities. Linda and Stanley Walker, we salute you for making a difference in the lives of Georgia’s most vulnerable children!!