Eurasia Adoptions through a Pandemic

GUESTJana Lombardo is the Senior Program Director of International Programs. She has been with Lifeline since 1992 after she graduated from Auburn with a bachelor’s degree in social work. She worked for six and a half years as a domestic social worker/ birthmother counselor until the birth of her first son Eli. She became a TBRI Practitioner in 2017. Jana and her husband, Luke, are also proud parents of another son, Gideon. Jana has been serving Lifeline for over twenty-two years and serves Lifeline as the program coordinator for Ukraine, Poland, Romania and Kyrgyzstan.  She helps to oversee the Bulgaria and Hungary programs as well.  This encompasses all of Lifeline’s Eastern European Countries and Kyrgyzstan. Brianna Thomas works as a social worker on Lifeline’s Eurasia team. Brianna graduated from the University of Montevallo in 2016 with a Bachelor’s in Social Work and received her Master’s in Social Work form The University of Alabama in May of 2018. She has always had a connection to Lifeline and was excited to join the team in January of 2016. Six years ago, the Lord confirmed her outlook on caring for orphans around the world and international adoption when close family friends adopted from Uganda and brought home a very special little boy that changed her life and heart forever. Brianna is thankful to be a part of the Eurasia team to serve families throughout their adoption journey! She is grateful for Lifeline and the opportunity to work for a gospel centered ministry who cares for vulnerable children all over the world.  Jackie Francis joined Lifeline’s staff in October of 2019. In 2010 she was an intern at Lifeline. She is from Birmingham, Alabama. She serves on our International team completing home studies and post placements.  Jackie received her degree from University of Alabama- Masters in Social Work. She is married to John and they have two children: Avery who is full of spunk and sass and Eli who is always on the move. Jackie is one of 3 sisters and has 3 nieces. Her family is very close and see each other often. She has a niece who was adopted domestically and that process sparked her passion for adoption. Jackie and her husband like to spend their free time with their kids, doing whatever makes them smile. This usually includes playing at the park or spending time with family.  RESOURCESFor those seeking to adopt, we have recently produced an eBook to help you as you financially prepare for the journey. Filled with tips, resources, contact information for grant organizations, and more. To receive this free eBook or to learn more click the link in the notes below. Contact [email protected] for the ebook. HOSTHerbie Newell is the President & Executive Director of Lifeline Children’s Services and its ministry arms. LIFELINE CHILDREN'S SERVICESThe mission of Lifeline Children’s Services is to equip the Body of Christ to manifest the gospel to vulnerable children. Our vision is for vulnerable children and their communities to be transformed by the gospel and to make disciples.