[Jackey22]

I went through my MAPP classes April-June. I sent my complete package to SCC the end of June, and I am still waiting for a telephone call to schedule my first interview/inspection. With this switch over from Family Continunity to Safe Children Coalition things have been crazy.

It's worth the energy and work. the children are great.

[mwildman]

Hi there,

Have you done this before (fostering?) We are looking to adopt a little girl, but don't mind fostering a couple until one comes available. Do you have experience at this? Would you mind sharing?

Thanks!

Mandy

[Jackey22]

Have you been through the MAPP classes? If not, you should attend them. They go over a lot and you will learn a lot more than you could have ever dreamed of. They teach you about the differences between Foster/Foster to Adopt/Straight Adopt. Foster care is not for everyone, and you will have a lot of children pass through your home waiting for one that is adoptable. It is hard. I currently have custody of a child that is in "the system". I could not go forward with adoption until I went through the MAPP classes. I attended the classes in West Pasco, and the classes were eye opening. The system is crazy and hard to get through. It is like having a second job. You have to keep on them or you will get lost in the stack. I love and would not give up this adventure because of what you can do for children. You give them hope and a sense of belonging by allowing them to sharing a short period of time with you and your family. Some children may open up to you and some my never. You just always have to remember that while they were with you, you gave them everything they needed and more.

Good luck!

- Jackey

[mwildman]

Thanks Jackey,

Your words are very wise and inspiring. We are going to go to the next MAPP classes available around here (Pinellas).

Best, Mandy

[kappelers]

I could use some good information on the situation in Pasco County. Our family has been interested in adopting a child out of Foster Care for over a year. We went to an orientation program with FCP and filled out forms for MAAP and background checks and then promptly never heard from ANYONE again.

Someone suggested taking MAAP through another county, but we got a very rude response from that idea-- basically saying "stay in your own county, buddy!"

It's very frustrating. I could have birthed my own child by now!

If anyone has some good information on how to get started again or who to call, I would appreciate it.

[reeseshaven]

Call 569-1740. They took over for FCP. Let them know you have already been to orentation and are intrested in starting the MAPP classes. good luck.

[NAVYCHIEF]

Hello Brandnew
I am not divulging this information to discourage you in any way. My wife and I live in Duval County and we went the state adoption route , attended the MAPP classes and completed everything including the home study. We were basically awaiting the call that a child was available but we get a call a couple of weeks later form a caseworker. Not our original one of course who informed us that she was our new caseworker and that we would have to start trhe process all over again because all of our paperwork was lost. Mind you, there were portions of the process that were really difficult the first time here in Florida and previously twice in Virginia. We finally decided to do an international adoption instead and currently we are awaiting a homestudy which will be completed next week and we will be on our way. I felt it was unprofessional to switch caseworkers without notifying us in the first place and very inconsiderate to ask us to start all over. i HOPE THIS DOESN'T DISCOURAGE YOU BUT JUST WANTED TO SHARE OUR EXPERIENCE WITH YOU.