Growing up in the foster care system, Tony harbored a simple yet profound longing for stability and unconditional love.
Meanwhile, Peter Mutabazi of Charlotte, North Carolina, shared a similar yearning for familial warmth, having endured a tumultuous childhood marked by poverty and abuse in Uganda. Now 37, Peter has dedicated his life to offering individuals like Tony a brighter future.
Inspired by the compassionate figure who became his family after fleeing his home at the tender age of 10, Peter embarked on a mission to make a difference. Upon relocating to the United States, he joined World Vision United States, a nonprofit committed to uplifting children and families affected by poverty.
Over the course of three years, Peter opened his home to 12 foster children, each seeking solace and stability. But it was Tony’s story that touched him the most.
Abandoned twice in his young life, Tony faced profound loss when his birth parents left him at the age of 2, followed by his adoptive family at 11. Despite having been with Tony since he was 4, his adoptive parents left him at a hospital, severing ties without a second thought.
In January 2018, Tony found himself under Peter’s care, initially planned for just two days. However, upon learning of the 13-year-old’s harrowing journey, Peter couldn’t bear to let him go.
Moved by compassion, Peter made the life-changing decision to provide Tony with the stability and love he so desperately needed. Despite Tony’s past trauma, he found solace and security in Peter’s nurturing embrace.
Describing Tony as the “nicest, smartest kid” he’s ever known, Peter proudly recounts how Tony immediately embraced him as “dad” from their first meeting.
Two years later, on November 12, 2019, Peter and Tony made their bond official through adoption, a milestone etched in their hearts forever.
Their journey is a testament to the transformative power of love and resilience. As they embark on this new chapter together, Peter and Tony eagerly anticipate sharing their home with other foster children, offering them the same kindness and support that has defined their own relationship.