Providing Comfort During Foster Transitions

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF) – When children are removed from unsafe homes, it can be one of the most traumatic moments of their lives. 

In Cleveland, the Isaiah 117 House works to make that first day less frightening by providing a safe, home-like environment for children waiting for foster or kinship placement.

Instead of sitting for hours in a Department of Children’s Services office, often with no toys, no beds, and few comforts, children are brought to the Isaiah 117 House. 

There, they have access to meals, clean clothes, toys, and volunteers who help guide them through the difficult first hours of removal day.

We spoke with Ashley Lindsey, the location leader at the Cleveland Isaiah 117 House, about how the house helps children feel safe. 

She shared the story of a 13-year-old who came to the house from under a bridge with almost nothing. “I asked him what size shoes do you wear? and he says a size 14, and I look down and say I knew that was a size 9 foot and come to find out he wanted a bigger shoe because maybe that’s the only pair of shoes he ever gets. He wants to make sure he doesn’t grow out of them,” Lindsey said. 

Stories like this highlight the small, everyday needs the house helps meet, from clothing and shoes to emotional support and comfort.

Since opening in 2021, the Cleveland Isaiah 117 House has served hundreds of children while caseworkers work to arrange foster or kinship placements. 

The volunteers at the house help make the transition as smooth and comforting as possible, keeping children engaged, occupied, and feeling cared for during a moment that can otherwise feel overwhelming and scary.

Across the country, there are now nearly 60 Isaiah 117 Houses, with several more in the works. 

Each location relies on local support, including volunteers and donations, to continue providing safe spaces for children during these critical hours.

For those looking to support the Cleveland Isaiah 117 House, gift cards, essential items, or volunteer time are always needed. 

The Cleveland Isaiah 117 House is currently hosting a restaurant gift card drive to support local children in foster care. 

The goal is $6,000, and donations can be dropped off at the following locations:

• White Wing Christian Book Store – 3750 Keith St, Cleveland, TN 37312
• Built Well Bank – 75 Bobby Taylor Ave, Cleveland, TN 37311
• Calfees Gas Station – 2889 Waterlevel Hwy, Cleveland, TN 37323
• Simply Chic Boutique – 3330 Keith St NW, Cleveland, TN 37312
• Midnite Oil / Owl’s Nest BBQ – 9043 Lee Hwy, Collegedale, TN 37363

The deadline for gift card donations is January 31, 2026.

You can also donate online through the Isaiah 117 House portal: https://support.isaiah117house.com/give/543960/#!/donation/checkout