Posted: 1/29/2008 1:08:14 PM EDT
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My wifes dream is that one day we will be able be foster parents. Right now we do not know any one in Michigan who fosters or any one who can give us advise. Does anyone here foster children or are involved with the fostering system? How about info for fostering? |
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Having been involved with child protective proceedings for years, I can tell you that some of the finest people on earth serve as foster parents. Having three fairly normal kids, I don't know how some foster parents handle five or six impaired/disabled children. I will never forget the absolute joy of a foster mother who learned that she could adopt a blind, disabled and mentally impaired two-year-old. Without a doubt, there are angels that walk the same ground I do. You have my utmost respect and admiration. I recommend getting in touch with a local social services agency who will happily educate you on getting certified as a foster home. I don't know where you are in Michigan, but if you post a general location (county?) I can come up with a few recommendations. |
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In the mid 80's my wife & I were foster parents. Usually it was a temporary arrangement. Long weekends, school breaks ect. We did take in one young man for about 20 months. He was from a rough part of Detroit. He stayed with us through high school & was the first in his family to graduate high school. His mother was so very proud of him, tears were streaming down her face at his graduation. We worked through a group called Teen Ranch in the Marlette. They are still in that area, do a Google search & you'll find a phone number if you'd like to contact them. |
| Its rewarding but you also have to expect that kids in foster care are going to be different than your kids or your friends kids might be. I raised a childen from 10 to late teens and he had a lot of problems..do some reading on reactive attachment disorder. Don't let it change your mind but be sure you understand what you're looking at, too. |
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Me and my wife are in Wayne County. We know that it can be difficult. We also pray that we will be given the strength and courage to handle any situation. I had a step brother that was adopted who had many emotional dissorders. Also I have known many children that had issues. Seeing what they did and how they did it and how their parents reacted has helped me understand how to raise kids. I'm not saying that I have the answers, but if this makes sense we are not expecting an Arfon Annie and Mr Robucts situation. I sure know I gave my parents one heck of a time occasionaly. |
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Catholic Social Services.; Wayne Center (lots of good information on the website); just a couple in WC. I haven't dealt with either before. Best wishes! |
As did I..but kids with reactive attachment disorder are beyond that..and its suprisingly common in foster kids..and unfortunately, prisons. It can be dealt with, but educate yourself..and don't depend on the foster care agency to educate you. Their job is to find children good homes..protecting you and your family is your responsibility. Good luck..I'm sure you'll do a great job. |