Couple Ready To Adopt Russian Orphans

By Chris Wright, News On 6

SKIATOOK, OK -- A Green Country couple is determined to improve the lives of several Russian orphans.

The Vincents of Skiatook recently hosted a Russian girl during her visit to Oklahoma. Now they want to adopt her, as well as her two siblings.

The Vincents fell in love with 14-year-old Tatiana. But they need some help to get her, her little sister  and brother, out of Russia.

Two weeks ago, Russian orphans visited Tulsa in hopes of finding a home here. As part of the Russia Lighthouse Orphan Project, they stayed with host families for ten days.

The Vincents looked after Tatiana. The couple had only volunteered to host the teen, but they were immediately enamored.

"During that week, we really started to care deeply about her. We just felt that God was pulling us towards those kids, and into that situation," said Christy Vincent.

"She didn't speak English.  She couldn't talk to anybody but just a couple of words.  There's just something about her that stands out that people like," said David Vincent.

By the end of her visit, the Vincents were determined to adopt Tatiana. But Russians don't split up families, so that meant taking in her 11-year-old brother Mikhail and 8-year-old sister Albina.

Despite never having met the siblings, the Vincents didn't hesitate.

"It would mean everything.  Our family would come together, our family that we didn't even know we had until two weeks ago would be complete," said Christy Vincent.

Unfortunately, it will cost more than $60,000 to adopt all three children. The Vincents have come up with half that amount, and their church is helping them raise the rest.

The couple is not worried about coming up with the money. Instead, they say the hardest part will be waiting for the children to come home.

"I just keep playing in my head, us showing up over there in Russia and picking them up, and that first meeting when we run up and hug them, and say you're coming home with us. That's what I've got in my mind," said David Vincent.

The Vincent's do have a child of their own, a 6-year-old boy. They say he is looking forward to have three new siblings.

The Skiatook Church of Christ is accepting donations for the family.  Their number is 918-396-2647. The church is also organizing several fundraisers and all proceeds will go towards the adoption effort.

Related Story:

11/1/2008 - Russian Orphans Looking For A Home