'Family is deeper than skin color'

RICHMOND, VA (KTRK) -- When Barry Farmer goes out with his three sons, he said its not uncommon for people to stare. Farmer is black and his three sons are white.

"It's a typical family," said Farmer. "We may not look alike, but it's a typical family."

Eight years ago, the 29-year-old decided he wanted to be a foster parent.

"I went through the training, the director who was there told me I was perfect for the program," said Farmer. "I didn't expect one kid, let alone three."

Now, he's the father of 14-year-old Darrell,12-year-old Xavier, and 6-year-old Jeremiah.

"When someone calls you dad, you're like, 'who me?' I just like taking care of children," said Farmer.

Farmer's oldest son, Darrell told ABC affiliate, WRIC, seven years ago, his dad asked him the most important question of his life.

"Dad was like, 'can I be your dad forever?' And I was like, 'you already are.' And that is how I came to stay here," said Darrell. "I was in this dark spot at first and then he just comes in the picture. And everything's all right."

Farmer adopted all three boys because he believes everyone deserves a family. He admits that at first, he and his three children received several looks from strangers.

"In this day in time when it comes to family, and seeing color or seeing unity and belonging, and that's what I was hoping to accomplish with my family anyway," said Farmer. ""When I have them now I can't imagine them anywhere else, and it's a typical family."