Unsung Heroes: AGC's First Foster Family

It was a cold winter day in 2013 when Kim and Marty Allen welcomed their first foster placement: a teenage mother and her four-month-old baby. This moment wasn’t just significant for the Allen's—it also marked the very first foster placement for All God’s Children.

Once upon a time, Marty served as AGC’s maintenance director. Beyond keeping the building standing, he and Kim poured their lives into the teen parents and the children of our mother-baby home. Working closely with founder Pam Smith, the Allen's celebrate the success of the young mothers by providing home-cooked meals and gatherings at their home.

When Pam’s daughter, Kathryn Maupin, began developing AGC’s foster care program, inviting the Allen's to participate felt like a natural extension of their calling. The couple had already offered respite care for many of the young moms and their babies—stepping in whenever needed.

Kim Allen recalls one particular placement and the shock of the three siblings when they realized they wouldn’t be sleeping together on a bare mattress on the floor. For the first time, each of them had their own bed. In the extreme difficulty of their circumstances, this was something for them to celebrate.

Over the years, Kim and Marty have fostered and provided respite care for more than 20 children. Their mission was always clear: keep siblings together.

When asked what advice she’d offer to new foster parents, Kim shares this wisdom:

"The honeymoon phase is fun—but it doesn’t last long. Use that time to establish clear, consistent rules. Say what you mean, and follow through. And never make promises you can’t keep.”

Though officially retired from fostering, the Allen's’ hearts remain deeply committed to service. Alongside their full-time jobs, they lead a ministry in Haiti, partnering with a local orphanage to disciple youth and spread the gospel. You can learn more about their ongoing mission at globalredemptioninc.com.