Friends of Children of

North Central Florida

The Friends of Children of North Central Florida is a partner with the Florida Baptist Children's Homes and churches throughout the state of Florida.

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the

kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Matthew 19:14, NIV

What's happening in north central Florida now?

Michelle Everson, the local social worker for the FBCH, is in the process of licensing six sets of prospective foster parents, helping three mothers of newborns place their babies with adoptive parents, and working toward the approval of five sets of adoptive parents. She has received four calls in the past few months from individuals and child care agencies asking for local resident care beyond what foster parents can provide. The need for local care, which our local campus will provide, continues to grow. She receives about two calls a week from people seeking foster care for newborns.

What are the children like on FBCH campuses?

They're "normal" children but with parents who are unable to care for them temporarily for a variety of reasons. The goal of the FBCH is to reunite parents and their children within two years if it is deemed best for the child, a goal that the Homes usually meets or exceeds. The Homes provides counseling and other assistance for parents to help them prepare for welcoming their children home. The Homes provides children with all basic necessities, a safe place and exposure to the Gospel—an invaluable service to these children for all eternity! Most of the children served by the Florida Baptist Children's Homes come to know the Lord as a result of faithful service of child care workers and foster parents and through exposure to churches who help us in sharing the gospel with these children. Join us as we seek to pray and support the Homes and as we grow in Gainesville and the surrounding areas!

Volunteers needed

Michelle Everson, the local social worker for the FBCH, needs volunteers for assistance in office management and clerical work at flexible times throughout the week. While the hours would be set by your schedule during the week, applicants should be well versed in Microsoft Word, able to navigate the internet easily and be comfortable operating in email. Applicants should be comfortable with basic office tasks as filing, phone service and correspondence. All volunteers are asked to complete background checks and various confidentiality requirements. Please call the office at 352-377-2517 or email at meverson@fbchomes.org.

What happens to a contribution I make to the
Friends of Children of North Central Florida?

All gifts given to the FOCNCF for the future campus will be sent to the FBCH for safekeeping. Some individuals and churches have contributed to the FOCNCF's administrative expenses, providing funds for promotion of events and other related expenses. We welcome either type of gift.

Thank you for your gifts, prayers, and other support.