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FAFS offers support services through two distinct venues:
• Our Hotline Staff serves as the initial contact point for foster and adoptive parents and other individuals seeking information and/or assistance.
• Resource Family Advocates (RFA) are available to provide support to individuals who have more complicated needs. They provide an array of services, including preparing correspondence, attending hearings and meetings, and advocating on behalf of our families.
Resource Family Advocates provide assistance to FAFS’ Volunteer Committees and the Morris County Affiliate who, in turn, provide support to families in their communities. These services include:
1. Networking opportunities
2. Speakers on relevant foster care and adoption topics
3. Annual activities for our families
4. Group advocacy and support to one another
· Foster and adoptive parents licensed by the Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Licensing (OOL)
· Individuals who have adopted children through the New Jersey Division of Youth
and Family Services (DYFS).
How can I access support services provided by FAFS?
You can access FAFS services through this web site or by calling 1.800.222.0047, our toll-free Hotline. All contacts are confidential and all services are free.
Specifically, what are some of the services provided by calling the Hotline?
Our Hotline staff will assist you by:· Providing basic information on DYFS policies and procedures and the Manual of
Requirements for Resource Family Parents
· Providing information on community resources
· Referring to FAFS Resource Family Advocate or other agencies, when appropriate
· Completing an inquiry to become a foster/adoptive parent and explaining the licensure process
and various programs
Specifically, what are some of the services provided by calling my Resource Family Advocate?
Your Resource Family Advocate will:· Advocate on your behalf with DYFS and the OOL
· Answer questions, prepare correspondence or documentation
· Attend DYFS meetings and dispositional conferences and/or administrative reviews with you
· Provide in depth information about DYFS policies and procedures and the Manual of
Requirements for Resource Family Parents
· Explain the Institutional Abuse investigation process and the possible outcomes
· Act as a liaison/mediator between you and DYFS and other community providers
· Work with a FAFS Volunteer Committee or affiliate in your area to identify local supports
· Provide emotional support
Examples of when resource parents contact their Resource Family Advocate (RFA):
· When they have questions about DYFS policies and procedures and licensing requirements
· When they are informed that an Institutional Abuse investigation (IAIU) has started
· When they want a RFA to accompany them to meetings with DYFS
· When they want to question a DYFS decision and/or action
· When they need someone to talk to about foster care issues
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