Christian Family Care, Southern Arizona, held it’s first ever Women of Influence Garden Luncheon and Fashion Show in Tucson on Saturday, March 6th. “BLOOM” was the theme for the women who attended to remind them to ‘bloom where they are planted’.

One client of CFC, Peggie, who has fostered 19 kids and adopted 8 since 1993, shared how she has been able to bloom where God placed her. On this sunny spring day, Peggie and Shannon stood side by side embracing one another, but 3 years ago it was a different story. Shannon’s two young children were in Peggie’s foster home. Initially the two women had a good relationship but after Shannon relapsed, Peggie lost faith in her and gave up trying to help her. Shannon was uneasy because the children were bonding with their foster mom and calling Peggie mom. Over the 12 months the children were in foster care, Shannon worked hard to overcome her addictions and her children were able to return home. Now, 16 months since the kids and Shannon were reunited, the two women have become like sisters. Their children play together, and they take turns babysitting for one another.

In addition to the touching testimonies of CFC clients, a highlight of the day was the fashion show emceed by KGUN 9 meteorologist, Erin Christiansen, featuring Christian Family Care foster moms with their adopted children, former birth moms, and other women associated with the agency. As lovely as the women were, the crowd thoroughly enjoyed the children. Some were shy, while others relished the applause and laughter of the audience. The babies that came out last with their moms waved and smiled at the guests and were a huge hit. These special kids were also able to “bloom” because of the love of a CFC forever family.

The event was made possible by Tom and Patti Aguilera, who opened up their lovely centrally-located home, and also catered the event. The women who attended were blessed by the atmosphere of God’s spirit in all that Christian Family Care does, whether foster care, adoption or any of the other ministries that make up the work of the agency.