There is a bit of dissonance when it comes to the trajectory of Christian support of global orphan care. More Christians are accurately understanding that kids in orphanages have families AND they are increasing the amount of financial support towards that residential care. In this episode Brandon Stiver is joined by Elli Oswald of the Faith to Action Initiative and Julie Walton of the Martin James Foundation. Together, they explores the recent Barna study on U.S. Christians' perceptions and support of orphanages and family-based care, highlighting shifts in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors over the last five years. If you have a heart to see kids in families and Christian orphan care progress beyond putting kids in orphanages, you've gotta listen in on this important conversation.

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Resources and Links from the show

Faith to Action Online

Martin James Foundation Online

Barna Report on Residential Care: U.S. Christian Giving and Missions (2026)

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Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

03:19 Understanding the Barna Study and Its Goals
05:24 The Importance of Family-Based Care
09:17 Knowledge Gaps and Misconceptions
14:22 Support and Funding Trends in the U.S.
21:14 Behavior Change and Emotional Connections
26:09 Next Steps for Care Reform and Donor Engagement
34:07 The Role of Faith and Cultural Mindsets
41:44 Impact of Global and Political Changes
51:49 Practical Strategies for Application and Collaboration
01:01:07 Personal Stories and Case Examples
01:05:16 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

The Growing (and Diminishing) Support for Orphanages with Julie Walton & Elli Oswald