A Lifetime of Love
30 Years of Fostering: John & Shirley Malone
For more than three decades, John and Shirley Malone have opened their hearts and home to children and youth in need of a safe, temporary place to live. After 30 years of fostering, the couple has decided it is finally time to retire. Their story is one of devotion, resilience, and the profound joy that comes from caring for others.
“We’ve thought about retiring before,” Mrs. Malone shares. “But it never felt like the right time. The kids are so loved here, and we’ve loved so many. But now, it feels like the right time.”
Over the years, the Malones created a home filled with laughter, routine, and love. Children and youth who arrived unsure and afraid soon learned they were safe and belonged. “It brings me joy when you see a child go from quiet and scared to a week later running up to you, laughing and talking,” Mr. Malone shares. “That’s when you know they trust you.”
From the start, their philosophy was simple: every child and youth deserves to feel welcome. As Mr. Malone puts it, “This is your home for now. Eat, play, and be yourself. You are safe here.”
The memories they have made over the years could fill volumes. Mr. Malone recalls a moment at a children’s museum that still makes him smile. “I ran into a child we fostered, and he came running up to me and said, ‘Mr. John!’ and gave me a big hug. You don’t forget things like that.” At a NYAP appreciation event, another little boy they had once cared for ran across the room to hug Mr. Malone. “We only cared for him a short time,” he says softly, “but that hug meant everything.”
Many of the children and youth they opened their home to still keep in touch. “We are still part of so many of their lives,” says Mrs. Malone. “It’s such a gift.” Some affectionately call them Mamaw and Papaw, titles that perfectly reflect the love and stability they have offered throughout the years.
Saying goodbye, however, has never been easy. “I’m a big crybaby,” Mr. Malone admits with a laugh. “When the kids go home, I cry, but I’m happy for them too.” Even in those bittersweet moments, the Malones find comfort in their faith and in knowing they have helped children and youth heal, grow, and move forward with confidence.
As the couple looks back, they hope to inspire others to take the same leap they did so many years ago. “You know what you can handle,” says Mrs. Malone. “If you love kids and have the time and space, just make your mind up to do it.” Her husband agrees wholeheartedly. “Once you do it, you’ll find so much joy in fostering. The kids are great. Just make them feel welcome and loved.”
Their patience and belief in every child and youth’s potential have left a lasting mark on the NYAP community and on the countless young lives they have touched. As they step into retirement, their legacy serves as a reminder of what it truly means to foster with unwavering compassion and dedication.
Reflecting on NYAP, the Malones express deep appreciation for our support and partnership. “It has been wonderful. I don’t know that NYAP could have been any better to us. They were always there for us, sometimes before we even knew we needed them.”
As we say goodbye to the Malones, we leave you with one final message of wisdom from Mrs. Malone: “Feed them and love them. Make them comfortable. Be there for them. That’s what matters most.”
From all of us at NYAP, thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Malone, for your extraordinary 30 years of love, guidance, and commitment to children, youth, and families. Your hearts have built a legacy that will continue to inspire us for generations to come.