Blue Ridge Christian News
McDowell County
When a child faces the heartbreak of being separated from the life they’ve known—whether due to illness, trauma, or crisis—the world can suddenly feel uncertain and frightening. But in the mountains of Western North Carolina, the Live Like Megan Foundation is shining a light that refuses to be dimmed.
Founded with a heart for children navigating life-altering challenges, the foundation walks alongside kids who are facing serious illness or entering foster care during some of their hardest moments. With each act of compassion, it brings hope, opportunity, and the love of Christ into the lives of the vulnerable.
At the heart of this ministry is Meg’s Place, a peaceful home in McDowell County that offers children entering foster care a safe and welcoming environment. Rather than spending the night on the floor of a DSS office, these children are welcomed into a space that says, You are safe. You are loved.
“Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.” – Psalm 82:3
Meg’s Place is more than just a bed for the night—it’s a sanctuary where scared and hurting children are reminded that they are not alone. And the vision doesn’t stop there. Executive Director Amber Vess and her team are working toward opening similar homes in Yancey and Burke counties. “No child should ever have to spend the night on the floor while waiting for a foster placement,” says Vess. “We believe every community should have a Meg’s Place—where love and the presence of Christ meet children in their hardest hours.”
The foundation also supports foster families and kinship caregivers through monthly training, encouragement, and practical resources like clothing, furniture, and toys—offering them the strength to continue serving and reminding them they’re not alone.
Another growing outreach is the Outdoor Adventures program. This past spring, youth took part in a guided bird hunt, and this fall they’ll embark on a multi-day bear hunt. These experiences are designed to build confidence, character, and community while helping kids create life-giving memories surrounded by the beauty of God’s creation.
“He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul…” – Psalm 23:2–3
As the new school year approaches, the foundation is also preparing for its annual Back to School Bash, equipping children in foster care with new backpacks and school supplies. These gifts are more than just practical tools—they are reminders that each child is seen, valued, and not forgotten.
“But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 19:14
From bedrooms to backpacks, mentorship to meals, every effort of the Live Like Megan Foundation points back to one clear message: Christ’s love is real, and it reaches even into the darkest corners of this world.
To learn more about the foundation or to support its mission, visit livelikemeganfoundation.com.
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