WICHITA, KAN. (May 15, 2026) – For Kansas foster parents Corina Deshazer and Baily Waring, fostering is more than opening their home — it’s making sure every child who enters feels like they belong.
The couple, parents of four biological children, lives an active family life filled with outdoor adventures, shared meals and time spent together. When they reached a season of stability, they knew it was time to extend that life to children who needed it most.
Foster care had long been close to their hearts. One partner experienced foster care firsthand, while the other was adopted, giving both a deeply personal understanding of how much belonging can shape a child’s future.
“We eat dinner together every night,” they shared. “Everyone sits at the table. Everyone shares their day. That simple routine sends a powerful message…you matter here.”
Before placements arrive, they gather details about a child’s interests and preferences to ensure their space feels personal and welcoming. Once children arrive, they help decorate their room and make it their own.
Over time, those intentional steps build trust.
“We’ve watched kids who came to us closed off slowly open up,” they said. “There’s a moment when you can tell they don’t feel like guests anymore. They feel at home.”
During National Foster Care Month, Deshazer and Waring want people to know fostering doesn’t require perfection, just presence.
“You’ll never feel fully ready,” they said. “You learn as you go. What matters most is your willingness to attach, to show up, and to stay.”
Our community needs more foster parents like the Deshazer Waring family. To learn more about becoming a foster parent or to apply please visit How To Become A Foster Parent – TFI
TFI is a leading child welfare agency providing experience, compassion, quality services and care. We have more than 60 years of experience strengthening families. We provide various services to the community, including foster and kinship care, case management, adoption, clinical and behavioral health, prevention and family preservation, residential, and numerous other child welfare services.
