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This post is in response to those people asking for info on how to get started. First you contact the WVDHHR and express your interest in foster or adoption and attend a day long training class. Then you and your husband fill out a bunch of forms on your desires, parenting, lifestyle, history, etc. You will need to have your fingerprints taken and sent to check for felonies or major crimes. You will give a list of references for them to check. The homefinder will do a home study to be sure you have a safe home and she will interview you. Just be honest and be yourself. You will eventually need a bed for each child and separate bedrooms for different sexes. Then you need to have a form filled out by a doctor to say you are healthy. This all takes about 6-9 months. In the meantime, you get your house ready by buying a few items like beds, toothbrushes, a car seat, etc. Finally they will call you (probably as soon as you are certified) to offer you a child/children. Foster is never a sure thing and you need to prepare yourself to have children in your home that may be very different from you in terms of personility or discipline, and yet you may also have a child or baby you fall in love with but must give back. My advice is that you think carefully about what age, sex and kinds of children you can handle and stick to it. The workers are looking to find children homes and will pay little attention to your orignial requests unless you stand up for yourself. Finally, remember that the state workers are overworked and it will be your responsibility to be sure the children get what they need without alot of support. Good luck. I'll be reading your messages!
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