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We hope you'll enjoy these fabulous guides to free and affordable family fun in central Florida! From the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Coast and everywhere in between, families of all sizes and budgets will be able to make the summer of 2016 a memorable one without breaking the bank!
During the summer months of June and July, we would like to see if you would consider being a part in our BACKPACK DRIVE!
It is our goal to provide backpacks full of supplies for as many of our foster families as possible by the beginning of the 2016-17 school year.
If you are interested in taking part in this outreach, you are welcome to purchase your choice of backpack for donation. Listed below are the items requested to be placed in the backpack.
This is why my family chose to become a foster, and eventually adoptive family in Polk County, Florida. As a foster and adoptive brother, I have been allowed the opportunity to help shelter ten different children within our home over the past eight years. During this time I have been able to develop patience and empathy for those who have experienced great trauma. Since I was an only child for the first six years of my life, these experiences led me to share my space, toys, time, and even my family. With every child that was taken in, I felt it was my responsibility to make sure they didn't leave without knowing that there was someone who cared. I have helped prepare numerous meals, organize clothes, provide safety and fun at the park, entertainment at home and in the car, reading of books, bedtime prayers, and much more. Although some of my foster brothers and sisters stayed for only a short time, I believe that each day counts.
Ashley Beckwith was a constant source of information and support during the two years and five months of our adoption journey. My husband and I completed the Adoption 101 (now MAPS) class in 2012. Ashley stayed in touch and available to us through the adoption newsletter and checking in via email. She was present at match meetings and adoption events. We finalized our adoption a month ago. I am finally a mother and I feel so thankful and blessed to have been able to work with Ashley through this process. Ashley, you are so dedicated and positive. It was a pleasure to work with you.
Mary Thomson-Marin Adoptive Parent