Have you ever wondered what it would be like to open your heart and home to a child in need?
The journey of fostering is not one taken lightly, but the rewards are immeasurable. It’s about providing a safe haven, offering unconditional love, and becoming a true parent to those who need it most.
There are some people who take this role to a whole new level, dedicating their lives to creating families and changing lives forever. Lamont Thomas, a single dad from Buffalo, New York, is one such remarkable person, and his story will leave you in awe.
Lamont has spent the last 20 years of his life fostering children, starting with his first child after getting certified. Speaking to Good Morning America about his early days in fostering, Lamont recalled, “In the beginning, I was helping out some friends. They had lost their child to the system. I went on and got certified and became a foster parent. I haven’t stopped since.”
Incredible as it may sound, Lamont has fostered over 30 children, five of whom he officially adopted. Together with his two biological children, Anthony and LaMonica, Lamont became a father of seven.
Lamont’s first adopted child, Michael Thomas, is now 27. Michael recalls, “He was my third foster home and it ended up being my forever home. He knew my biological parents.” Michael adds, “Lamont never turned a child away. They either aged out or went back home to their own families.”
Lamont thought he was done adopting after raising seven kids, but when he learned that five siblings—children of one of Lamont’s foster kids—were placed in separate homes, he knew he had to act. Zendaya, Jamel, Nakia, Major, and Michaela, ages 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1, were taken in by different families in different cities, which meant they wouldn’t be raised together.
Unable to let the siblings grow up apart, Lamont re-certified as a foster parent and adopted all five children. With some of his older kids now living independently, Lamont felt he was in the right position to welcome the new additions into his family.
“I was fighting to keep back the tears,” Lamont said of his adoption day. “Every day I think about it, my eyes swell up. All that we endured to make this happen, it was something.”
Now a father of 12, Lamont knew life wouldn’t be easy, but he was determined to make it work. “They bring new energy to me,” Lamont shared. “They’re lovable kids, very affectionate. They deserve to be raised as siblings, and that was my fight.”
Those who know Lamont describe him as one of the most special people they’ve ever met. He’s made a lasting impact on every child who has been part of his family, and now, he’s doing the same for their children as well.
“It’s amazing he’s taking on all of them,” said LaMonica, Lamont’s biological daughter. “He does anything for everybody. He’s a really great man.” Michael added that fostering was always Lamont’s calling. “We’re all grown now, and I can’t believe he’s starting all over again,” Michael shared. “Lamont has been a life-saver to me. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if he hadn’t come into my life.”
Lamont never expected anything in return; his only wish is that his story will inspire others to become foster parents, as the need for loving families continues to grow. “I wanted to make a difference by being a difference,” he said. “And I love what I do.”
Lamont Thomas’s journey as a foster parent is nothing short of extraordinary. His unwavering dedication to helping children in need has transformed the lives of over 30 kids, proving that one person’s love and commitment can truly make a difference. By adopting 12 children, including five siblings who might have otherwise been separated forever, Lamont has created a loving, united family that is thriving.
His story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact foster parents can have, and his hope is that others will be inspired to open their hearts to children who need a home. Lamont’s story is one of love, sacrifice, and selflessness, and it’s a story that will continue to inspire for years to come.
Please SHARE this article with your family and friends on Facebook.
Bored Daddy
Love and Peace