Recognizing that adoption is a perfect picture of what God has done for each of us in making us His children through Christ, Shaohannah's Hope has been established to present and encourage adoption as a response to the Gospel. Psalm 68:5-6 tells us that as the Father to the fatherless, God delights in setting the lonely in families. It has been our experience that the scriptural mandate of caring for orphans, such as the one found in James 1:27, is really a wonderful invitation to experience God in a profound way, by being a part of His sovereign plan for His precious children.
Working from these foundational truths, Shaohannah's Hope exists to enable children living without the love and hope of an earthly family to be adopted into "covenant homes." These families can provide not only love and support needed for this life, but also provide a child with the knowledge of God's plan for his or her eternal life with a forever family called the Body of Christ.
The Founders of Shaohannah's Hope - Steven and Mary Beth Chapman
"On March 16, 2002, I walked out of a hotel room in Changsha, Hunan, China, and my life was changed forever. As I opened my arms and my heart to my daughter, Shaohannah, I was spiritually, emotionally, and physically overwhelmed. The tears of joy over finally being united with my daughter were powerful. I felt God's presence like I have never felt it before. I finally understood what our Heavenly Father did for us by adopting us into His family. Shaohannah has given us so much. Our family has been blessed with her love, her joy, her warmth, and her smile.
By establishing Shaohannah's Hope, Steven and I want to give other families the opportunity to experience the miracle of adoption by making adoption more affordable for families who otherwise would not be able to adopt. We also desire to provide ongoing assistance for projects that will improve the care for children awaiting their forever families."
Eligibility for Adoption Assistance
Families without the financial ability to cover the full cost of adoption facilitated through organizations approved by the board of Shaohannah's Hope, may apply for assistance. Grants are based on financial need and income level and are awarded to adoption organizations, not to individuals, in order to offset certain adoption fees. Awards of financial assistance are contingent upon the availability of funds and are considered on a quarterly basis.
How to Apply for Assistance
The size of the grant awarded is determined by several factors, the most important being need. With a commitment in faith by the family, Shaohannah's Hope will provide up to $7,000 toward the cost of adopting, thereby reducing the financial barriers and allowing more families to experience the miracle of adoption. Don't let finances keep you from adopting a child. For information on applying for a grant, please visit www.shaohannahshope.org.
How to Support Shaohannah's Hope
Shaohannah's Hope Foundation welcomes the financial support of individuals, churches, and organizations committed to finding permanent families for children living without hope. All gifts given to Shaohannah's Hope are receipted and tax-deductible. Due to tax regulations, contributions may not be directed toward the assistance of a specific family. Bethany Christian Services is the financial custodian of Shaohannah's Hope.
Shaohannah's Hope Brochure/Donation Form