A New Year Brings Joy and Sorrow

The new year can bring both joy and sorrow for foster children, biological parents, and foster families. There is joy in the hope of reunification and in the promise of fresh beginnings, but also sorrow—children missing their families, foster parents witnessing that grief, and everyone living with uncertainty about what comes next. These mixed emotions can be overwhelming, especially for foster children who are navigating change, loss, and unanswered questions.

This season offers an opportunity for healing and growth. Through counseling, therapy, and strengthened relationships, both biological and foster families can work toward restoration while trusting that the new year will bring clarity and hope. With the loving support of foster families and dedicated staff, children can experience encouragement, stability, and optimism even during challenging transitions.

The new year represents renewal, reflection, and forward movement. It is a time to learn from the past, seek forgiveness, and set goals rooted in faith. By committing plans and resolutions to God through prayer, we ask for wisdom, guidance, and trust in His will. Foster care journeys require flexibility, patience, and faith, recognizing that outcomes are ultimately in God’s hands.

Healing from trauma, abuse, and neglect is often a long and difficult process, one that may take years and leave a lasting impact. Yet each new year brings the possibility of new love, deeper healing, and meaningful relationships. Just as every day offers a fresh start, the new year invites hope, growth, and the promise of new beginnings.

If you would like some practical help for new year resolutions and creating an intentional 2026, read our blog New Year's Resolutions.

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Katie Harper

About the Author

Katie Harper

Foster Care Aide & Transporter

My position at Encourage has been so incredibly rewarding. I love helping support foster families by providing transportation services. This gives foster families a small break to recharge and one less transport back and forth for visits. Many times, it is the simplest things that can help and make a big impact on someone's day. I'm grateful for the opportunity and responsibility for the care of the foster children while transporting them. I know I can be the sunshine for the children during a difficult time. Encourage does an incredible job supporting foster families and meeting the needs of foster children. I'm blessed to be a part of this wonderful company.