After fostering more than 30 children over the years, Peter Mutabazi has officially adopted two siblings he once expected would only stay with him temporarily.
Mutabazi, a single father living in North Carolina, finalized the adoption of 8-year-old Isabella and 7-year-old Luke after caring for them through the foster system. The children had first arrived at his home several years earlier.
Before adopting the siblings, Mutabazi had already fostered 36 children and previously adopted another son, Anthony, in 2019.
He has often shared parts of his fostering journey online, where he talks about creating stable homes for children in difficult situations and encouraging more men to become involved foster parents.
According to Mutabazi, the siblings originally entered foster care because of neglect tied to substance abuse issues. At first, social workers believed the placement would be temporary.
Over time, however, it became clear the children would not be returning home.
Mutabazi has said he strongly believes in helping biological families reunite whenever possible, but he also tells children in his care that if they cannot return home, they will always have a place with him.
When the adoption became official, the family gathered at the courthouse together for photos and paperwork. Mutabazi later described the day as emotional for everyone involved.
He said the children still asked whether their biological parents would be there.
In interviews, Mutabazi has described Luke as quiet, artistic, and eager to help others, while Isabella is more outgoing and confident.
Outside of adoption, he continues fostering children and working with families connected to the foster care system.
He has also said he hopes to continue adopting and fostering in the future because of the number of children still waiting for stable homes.
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