My name is Becky and I have two special needs sons of my own. We live in Santa Clara County. We are currently in the middle of a dependency case, and have lately been in need of respite care. Our wraparound people suggested that I inquire with a foster parenting group in the area and see if anyone here utilizes respite care (paid for by the county, or not, either way) and might have some advice for me.

My older son (8) has cystic fibrosis and bipolar disorder and my younger son (6) has behavioral problems. Both of them were molested by their dad, which is the reason why we're in dependency.

Thanks for any info you might have.

Becky

[AnitaCAfostadop]

Hi there --

My heart goes out to you as you watch over your boys and find help for your family. I am adopting two girls soon through foster care in Santa Clara county, and work through a non-profit Christian ministry called Help One Child. They recruit, train and encourage foster / adoptive families, and respite care workers, and match them up with familiies based on areas of need and expertise.

Judy runs the office in Los Altos, and should be a good resource for you. Tell her Anita sent you -- her number is 888-543-4673, and they're at helponechild.org.

Good luck and God bless you...


Anita

[Haddaway]

Hi Becky.

I use Santa Clara County respite care every month. paula Simms, the respite coordinator for the county system is extremely helpful in guiding you through the process as well as providing a list of licensed respite providors.

Are you a county foster parent? or through a private FFA?