Every child deserves a #ForeverFamily and a safe home.
The legal adoption process can cost over $25,000 to $40,000 in court fees, attorney retainers, and home studies. The Thankful Ones awards direct financial grants to foster families fighting for children impacted by parental addiction.
The Thankful Ones Fund
“What began as a cousin sleepover in 2015 turned into a 3-year legal battle to save 5-year-old Everly from dangerous addiction conditions. That journey gave birth to The Thankful Ones.”
Read the full inspiring storyPecan Grove Turkey Trot 5K
Join thousands of runners, walkers, and families Thanksgiving morning to raise vital adoption grants. Meet our mascot Wishbone!
Transforming Lives Across Texas
Every dollar raised breaks financial barriers for caregivers welcoming foster children into permanent homes.
Direct financial assistance paying legal, court, and adoption preparation costs.
Children who have found their forever families and permanent homes.
A decade of community-powered holiday tradition and unity in Fort Bend County.
All contributions directly empower adoptive families and children in crisis.
How The Thankful Ones Changes the Equation
Adoption is an emotional and grueling mountain. We eliminate the three biggest financial obstacles standing between a child and legal permanence.
Legal & Court Fee Relief
Covering the astronomical attorney retainers and filing fees necessary to legally finalize custody and adoptions.
- Family attorney retainers & representation
- Court filing fees and legal notices
- Mediation & guardian ad litem charges
- Expedited custody hearings & decree finalization
Therapy & Trauma Counseling
Ensuring trauma-informed mental health resources for children healing from neglect and upheaval.
- Specialized pediatric trauma therapy
- Family bonding & attachment counseling
- Parenting coaching for high-need foster/adoptive cases
- Play therapy and crisis intervention support
Home Studies & Placement Costs
Eliminating the upfront vetting and home readiness costs required before placement can occur.
- Certified home study evaluations
- State-mandated fingerprinting & background clearances
- Essential bedroom & safety supplies for welcoming children
- Emergency transition assistance
From a Thanksgiving Sleepover to a Life-Saving Mission
In November 2015, five-year-old Everly arrived for a holiday sleepover. When it became clear that her biological parents were struggling with debilitating substance abuse, Katie and her family made the life-altering choice to fight for her future in court.
After three years of court battles, mandatory screenings, tens of thousands in legal costs, and boundless prayer, Everly was legally adopted on National Adoption Day 2018. The family founded The Thankful Ones so that no child is left behind simply because a loving family cannot afford court fees.
Everly Frances
Adopted Nov 16, 2018
🎉 Today: Everly turned 16 in 2026, attends high school, and is an active leader in theatre arts and floral design.
🏅 Her Legacy: Inspired the Pecan Grove Turkey Trot and over $380,000 in adoption assistance grants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our grant program, 501(c)(3) tax deductions, and the Turkey Trot.