If you know us well, you know that public sharing is not our strongest suit, so this is going out of our comfort zone. But we’ve been reminded by the adoption process that we desperately need the prayers and support of our friends and family. We cannot do this alone! And so, humbly, we make our requests known to God and our needs known to you, our family, friends, and partners in Christ. Namely these:

MORE FROM THE STEADS:

As we draw nearer to knowing who our child is and bringing him or her home, our excitement grows, but so do our concerns about the unknown. Please pray against all fear and that our trust in the Lord’s perfect love would snuff it out. Pray for Harry who hasn’t got a clue what’s in store for him – an older brother or sister! – that God would prepare his heart to receive this new sibling joyfully and without any confusion or bitterness. And pray for our child in India – for the process to move along quickly and Gotcha Day to come about in God’s perfect timing and ways. Pray that He would keep our child safe from all manner of harm and prepare his or her heart to receive His and our love!

1. Please pray for us!

The plain fact is this: we need at least $48,000 to cover the adoption costs: from agency fees and medical exams to travel costs and immigration. It all adds up! When we started this process, Gordon was a student and Mez was a struggling author – we had no idea how God would provide. We are still waiting to see, but we know that He who called us to adopt will make a way! We hope and pray that some of you may be part of that way in the making.
 

The exciting news is *(drum roll)* we’ve been given a $13,000 Matching Grant from Race for the Orphans administered by Lifesong! 

That means that for every dollar given, a dollar will be matched by Lifesong’s donors up to $13,000. Keep reading to find out how you can contribute.

TO GIVE BY MAIL (an option for those in the U.S.) : All donor checks should be payable to “Lifesong for Orphans.” In the memo line please write “Stead 10491”, to ensure it is credited to our account. Please mail to Lifesong for Orphans, PO Box 9, Gridley, IL 61744.

TO GIVE ONLINE: Use the giving link below.

Here is how you can give to our MATCHING FUND:

Lifesong has been blessed with partners who underwrite all U.S. administrative and fundraising costs (TMG Foundation and other partners). That means 100% of your donation will go directly to the adoption.

*Donations are tax deductible. Here’s what you need to know:

■ Individual donations of $50 or more and yearly donations totalling $250 or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Receipts for donations under $50 will gladly be sent upon request. Lifesong is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization.
■ In accordance with IRS guidelines, your donation is to Lifesong for Orphans. This organization retains full discretion over its use, but intends to honor the donor’s suggested use.