LINCOLNTON, N.C.,None — James and Devonda Friday never began adopting kids for any personal gain. But Sunday, they were rewarded for years of selfless work fostering children.
Over the years, they've taken in more than 30 kids to "give them a chance," said James.
Last year, they took in a 15-year-old boy, named Chris. The Fridays soon learned that Chris had four other siblings that were without a permanent home. When Chris showed James and Devonda a video of them, they promised Chris they wouldn't allow him to be separated from them.
"We were going to help his brothers and sisters stay together," James said. "We made that commitment to him." That commitment led the Fridays to adopt Chris and his siblings, who are affectionately called "The Fab Five" by their new parents.
The addition of five more kids meant sacrifices for the Fridays that began by converting the car-port outside their home into two makeshift bedrooms. It hasn't been easy, but when ABC's Extreme Makeover; Home Edition heard the story, the show decided to step in.
IMAGES: Extreme Makeover: Home Edition comes to Lincolnton
CHOPPER 9: Crews prepare for demolition at 'Extreme Makeover' house
Early Sunday, the cast of the show surprised the entire Friday family as they shopped for a Christmas tree. The show, in partnership with Bellamy Homes, will be building the family a new home just in time for their first Christmas together.
"I don't know anyone who adopts and fosters five kids so that they don't get broken up in the system," said cast member, Ed Sanders. "That's why we're here."
Extreme Makeover: Home Edition will be in Lincolnton until next Saturday, when the Friday's new home will be revealed. Eyewitness News will follow the project all week long.
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