Inspired by the vision and dedication of Ronda and Corey Paulson, the idea of creating a comforting, supportive space for children entering foster care began as a small, local effort but that changed quickly. Isaiah 117 House grew into something much greater and made its way to Monroe County in 2020. Paulson’s vision took root in Southeast Tennessee thanks to a community willing to stand together and meet a critical need.
“Isaiah 117 House started as a small idea in Carter County, Tennessee,” said Jennifer Collins, Monroe County/McMinn County Location Leader as she shared the story. “Today it’s grown into a nationwide movement. We were house number 13 to open on May 12, 2023, and now there are more than 40 homes across multiple states.”
From the very beginning, local volunteers stepped forward for fundraisers, awareness events, and any opportunity to share the mission. Businesses, churches, schools, and families all found ways to contribute. The support has proven the power of a community united by compassion.
“At its core, our mission is simple, but incredibly important,” Collins explains. “We want to reduce trauma for children awaiting foster placement, lighten the load for child welfare workers, and ease the transition for foster families.”
For children entering foster care, the experience can be overwhelming. Many arrive frightened, exhausted, and uncertain. They sometimes carry all their belongings in a trash bag. In those moments, Isaiah 117 House became a place of refuge.
“We get to meet children on what is often the hardest day of their lives,” said Collins. “Instead of a cold office and paperwork, they’re welcomed with warm pajamas, a soft blanket, a meal, and someone who cares. It’s incredible to watch fear slowly leave a child’s eyes. To see them begin to relax, maybe start coloring or even laughing again. Those moments stay with you.”
The work is deeply rooted in faith and guided by Isaiah 1:17: “Defend the cause of the fatherless.” But more than anything, it is about showing tangible love.
“Children may not remember every detail of their trauma,” Collins reflected, “but they will always remember how people made them feel. They remember the kindness, the comfort, and the moment they felt seen and valued.”
One of the most powerful aspects of Isaiah 117 House is its impact beyond the children it serves. It brings an entire community together around a shared purpose.
“What inspires me most is watching people realize the children of our community deserve better and then stepping up to make that happen,” Collins said. “From lemonade stands and golf tournaments to donation drives and volunteer hours, this community shows up again and again. It creates a network of hope around families in crisis.”
Being part of the Chamber has helped strengthen those connections.
“It gives us the opportunity to build relationships with local businesses and leaders who want to invest in the well-being of children,” Collins explained. “Through those partnerships, more people learn about our mission and more volunteers get involved. More lives are impacted. It reminds us that we are not doing this work alone.”
In Monroe County, that sense of community is especially strong.
“There’s something special about living and serving here,” Collins said. “People truly support one another. They show up, they give generously, and they care deeply. That kind of environment makes this mission possible.”
Looking ahead, the long-term vision remains clear and steadfast.
“Our dream is that no child entering foster care will ever have to wait alone in an office again,” Collins said. “Every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and protected from the very beginning.”
Isaiah 117 House is more than a building. It’s a promise.
A promise that a child will be met with comfort instead of chaos. A promise that fear will be replaced with kindness. A promise that no child will face their hardest day alone. “We are only here because of this community,” Collins emphasized. “Every act of generosity, big or small, creates a better experience for these children. Because of that, their first moments in care can begin with hope.”
Connect with Isaiah 117 House
Website: www.isaiah117house.org
Instagram: https://instagram.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
