Legislative support
Bishop Martin & First Lady Donna
Bishop Martin and Donna Martin of Possum Trot, Texas, are widely recognized as devoted advocates for foster youth and the architects of an extraordinary movement of love and resilience. Their journey began in the small, unassuming town of Possum Trot, where they cultivated a powerful mission rooted in faith and community. The Martins are best known for their unparalleled commitment to fostering and adopting children in need, transforming their ministry into a safe haven for vulnerable youth.
The Martins’ journey into foster care advocacy began when they opened their hearts and home to over 70 children through foster care, with many becoming permanent members of their family. Their remarkable story of selflessness and faith captured national attention, inspiring countless individuals to join their mission of protecting and uplifting the most vulnerable members of society.
As leaders and visionaries, Bishop Martin and Donna have extended their efforts beyond their home by championing the Sound of Hope Act (HB 194). This legislation seeks to enhance mental health services and support systems for foster youth, particularly those aging out of care, who often face significant challenges transitioning into adulthood. The Martins recognize the vital need for comprehensive, trauma-informed counseling services to help these young people heal and thrive.
Their unwavering support for HB 194 reflects their belief in empowering foster youth through access to resources that address their unique needs. As key voices in the movement, the Martins have worked tirelessly to raise awareness, engaging with policymakers, communities, and organizations to bring the Sound of Hope Act to life.
State Representative Steve Toth
Michelle Lehn, Religious Coalition
State Representative Steve Toth
Isaiah 1:17 calls us to "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."
This scripture underscores our moral imperative to advocate for the most vulnerable among us, especially foster children. My commitment to seeing this bill come to fruition is rooted in this divine mandat
Isaiah 1:17 calls us to "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."
This scripture underscores our moral imperative to advocate for the most vulnerable among us, especially foster children. My commitment to seeing this bill come to fruition is rooted in this divine mandate, as I work tirelessly to return children to the care of the church rather than the state. By placing foster children in the nurturing environment of the church, we fulfill our sacred duty to seek justice and correct oppression, offering them the love, guidance, and stability they deserve. It is my steadfast belief that within the church, these children can find a true home, where they are not only cared for but also valued as beloved members of God's family.
Rebecca Smith-Nash, MA, LPC-S
Michelle Lehn, Religious Coalition
State Representative Steve Toth
Tell me your story
You are not alone
I will show you love
You’ve never known
Creating a new path for foster children to be in the care of the church is an embodiment of the belief that they are God's children and always have a home in God's house. This initiative aims to provide a nurturing and stable environment rooted in faith, love, and c
Tell me your story
You are not alone
I will show you love
You’ve never known
Creating a new path for foster children to be in the care of the church is an embodiment of the belief that they are God's children and always have a home in God's house. This initiative aims to provide a nurturing and stable environment rooted in faith, love, and community. By integrating foster care within the church's mission, we offer these children a sanctuary where they can experience the warmth of a supportive family, receive spiritual guidance, and grow in an atmosphere of unconditional acceptance. This approach not only addresses their immediate needs for safety and stability but also fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, reminding them that they are cherished members of God's family and have a permanent place in His home.
Michelle Lehn, Religious Coalition
Michelle Lehn, Religious Coalition
Michelle Lehn, Religious Coalition
Michelle Lehn, a dedicated speech-language pathologist by profession, has found her most cherished vocation in homeschooling her two children. A faithful parishioner at St. Anthony’s Church in The Woodlands, Michelle leads with purpose and compassion as the head of the St. Joseph Foster Care Ministry at her parish.
This newly established m
Michelle Lehn, a dedicated speech-language pathologist by profession, has found her most cherished vocation in homeschooling her two children. A faithful parishioner at St. Anthony’s Church in The Woodlands, Michelle leads with purpose and compassion as the head of the St. Joseph Foster Care Ministry at her parish.
This newly established ministry is dedicated to raising awareness about the challenges faced by foster youth and those who support them. Michelle is spearheading efforts to build meaningful connections between parishioners and community resources. Her mission is clear: to engage the church community in fostering prevention, intervention, and restoration for vulnerable children.
Michelle is leading the Religious Coalition for the Sound of Hope Act (HB 194H), as we advocate for legislation that will transform how foster youth are supported.
Raising awareness for HB 194 "Sound of Hope ACt"
Sound of Hope Act Movement for Foster Care
With a deep understanding about the importance of family, Drew has graciously joined our mission to help grow awareness.. Drew has a huge heart for giving back to his community and a deep faith in serving the Lord.
"I feel the world spins different when I see children first experience "this is where I'm supposed to be."