16-05-2025
Arkansas Foster Family of the Year winners announced
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Children and Family Services (DCFS) hosted its annual Foster Family of the Year Gala Thursday night at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
At the end of the night, Teddy and Luz Garcia of Rogers were named the state's 2025 Foster Family of the Year.
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DCFS officials said the Garcias became foster parents five years ago when two of their relatives entered the foster care system. They said what was initially a temporary opportunity to care for family members has grown into a blended family.
Also at the gala, nine families were named as the 2025 Arkansas Foster Family of the Year for their area:
Lori Cooper, Fort Smith
Israel and Adriana Villaloz, Hot Springs
Matt and Laura Smith, Texarkana
Calvin and Hailey Manion, Conway
David and June Simpson, North Little Rock
Pamela Thomas-Nelson, Pine Bluff
Joey and Jessica Patten, Mammoth Spring
David and Kristian Ingle, Beebe
Justin and Brandy Morphis, Monticello
Arkansas Department of Human Services Secretary Kristi Putnam said that foster families fill a critical need.
'Foster families are everyday heroes,' she said. 'They are the backbone of our child welfare system, and we are deeply grateful for their partnership and dedication.'
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DCFS officials said Arkansas has approximately 3,400 children in foster care. Each year, caseworkers, child advocates, and fellow foster parents nominate families who go above and beyond to support vulnerable children and families.
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