Hello,
We are the Aune family, until recently consisting of Christopher, Heather, Joseph, Thomas, Rita, Verena, and another little one on the way. We are delighted to announce our recent adoption of Matthew.
We originally became strongly interested in adopting a few years ago when we thought it possible we may never be able to have any more biological children. After being further blessed with children, we found we were just as interested in adopting as before, to enrich our family with the unique blessing that each new family member brings, provide a home for a child in need, and be a blessing to his birth family. When we heard Matthew's mother was hoping to find a Catholic family like ours for her son, and that we would be able to access the medical services and therapies necessary to help Matthew with his special needs, we began to think God may be asking us to welcome him into our family.
Transitioning Matthew to our care has already been challenging yet rewarding. Matthew was born at only 27 weeks gestation and weighed just one pound, and still needs help overcoming health complications originating from his early birth. Would you please pray for Matthew, his birth family, and all of us during this time of transition? We are entrusting all that happens to God's holy will.
One of the challenges Matthew's adoption has presented is financial. We have been saving for a potential adoption for a few years now, but adoption fees, travel expenses, as well as initial expenses to properly care for Matthew's special needs add up, and they are a financial stretch for us.
Lifesong for Orphans has graciously awarded us a matching grant of $5,000. Any amount donated to our cause (up to $5,000) will be doubled.
Thank you for taking the time to read our story. We appreciate all of your prayers and assistance. We will remember you in our daily prayers.
Sincerely,
Christopher and Heather Aune
STRIPE charges an online processing fee (2.2% +.30 USD per transaction)*. Your donations will be decreased by this amount. You may also send a check payable to “Lifesong for Orphans”. In the memo line please write “Aune 10365”, to ensure it is credited to our account. Please mail to Lifesong for Orphans, PO Box 9, Gridley, IL 61744.
Lifesong has been blessed with partners who underwrite all U.S. administrative and fundraising costs (TMG Foundation and other partners). That means 100% of your donation will go directly to the adoption.
- In following IRS guidelines, your donation is to Lifesong for Orphans. This organization retains full discretion over its use, but intends to honor the donor’s suggested use.
- Lifesong is a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. Individual donations of $50 or more and yearly donations totaling $250 or more will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Receipts for donations under $50 will gladly be sent upon request.
- *3.5% fee for donations given with an American Express card