Family with 18 Kids Rewarded for Big Heart

INDEPENDENCE, Mo. — After raising 11 children of their own, an Independence, Mo., couple decided to adopt seven more. And kids can be expensive.

That’s why a family friend and supporter of Terry and Sherry Stevens called FOX 4′s Kathy Quinn and nominated them for Pay It Forward.

“They’re always welcoming anybody that wants to come over,” said Forrest Clopton, friend.

After raising 11 children of their own, the Stevens wanted to adopt a child, but that child had six siblings. Not wanting to break up the children, the Stevens adopted all of the kids.

Clopton said he nominated the Stevens for Pay It Forward because he hoped the $300 would help with the cost of raising their ever-growing family.