[hkolln]

First thing you have to do is find the CW's name and telephone number where the child is at and give her/him a call. Let them know you are interested in taking in this child and find out the process to do that. If you are not, most likely you'll have to take MAPP classes here in Florida (I'm also in FL) and become licensed as a foster parent. But I would make sure the CW knows you are very interested...and ask what you need to do on your end.

If they decide to place with you then you'll need an ICPC done. The CW there will have to start that process so Florida accepts the child here. The ICPC is a process both states have to go thru to move the child so that all laws in both states are followed. And the ICPC lists each states responsibilities (In our case Idaho had custody of Alexis which meant all here court cases were heard in Idaho while Florida just overseed her by sending in a monthly SW to document a report to send to Idaho) Our daughter came from Idaho and we're in Florida and it took 7 months for that to be completed so it's not a short process. Best thing is to get the ball rolling if they want to place with you. Most likely if they aren't looking at TPR they may not move the child as visits will still be going on there. Have they established that they are going to TPR?

And another thing-In our case they weren't so easy to get in touch with so we had to call at least twice a week to get calls back or get anyone! I think after awhile they realized we were serious about bringing our niece here and then started the process. But if you don't get a call back today or tomorrow I would call again just to touch base (that is if you are very serious about taking the child).