Elmira Family Spotlight
INElmira, there’s a family that really captures what community, love, and sticking together mean. Stephanie and Caleb Bauman, along with their five kids, have recently been chosen for the Elmira Family Spotlight , a charitable initiative led by Luxe Realty Group in partnership with several local businesses to give back to the community. They got nominated by their neighbors, who wanted to celebrate their commitment to family, helping out, and making connections that go beyond just their own house.
Stephanie works part-time as a nurse at St. Marys General Hospital, and Caleb recently started a new job with the OPP.
They’ve been the backbone of their family for nine years, with three kids of their own—River, Eli, and Georgia, aged four to eight—and two foster boys, aged four and six, who’ve been with them for nearly two years. Their home is always full of activity and love.
Stephanie and Caleb both went to Elmira District Secondary School, and after a short time in St. Clements, they came back to Elmira. They love the small-town feel and the friendly faces they know wherever they go. Two years ago, they settled on a nice piece of land just outside of Elmira.
Winning the Elmira Family Spotlight meant a lot to them. It came at a tough time, with Caleb away for training. But the support from local businesses and the community really lifted their spirits.
They love Elmira and have lots of fun with their kids here—going to different playgrounds, cheering on the Woolwich Wildcats at hockey games, being part of Citizens Church, grabbing breakfast at
Sip & Bite, and checking out the tractors at John Deere. They especially love Sapfest and never miss a chance to get pancakes bright and early.
Their journey also includes opening their home to foster kids through Family and Children’s Services of Waterloo Region. It started with feeling like someone was missing at the dinner table, and they realized they had more love to give. With help from their community, they welcomed two boys into their family.
As Caleb continues his training away from home, Stephanie has been juggling work, homeschooling, and taking care of five kids. She wants people to know there’s a big need for foster families in Waterloo Region, especially for older kids.
The Bauman family’s story is a reminder of the importance of sticking together and helping out, especially during tough times. In Elmira, they’re shining bright as a family that shows how much we can do when we open our hearts to others, one child at a time.