More Northeast Florida foster homes needed, especially for teens

Northeast Florida — Right now, there’s a big need for more foster homes. Family Support Services, a lead agency for foster car and adoption in Duval and Nassau counties, said it has seen an increase in the number of teens who need forever homes.

“The need for more foster homes is imminent, especially foster homes that will take teens,” said Tiffany Ball, licensing manager for Family Support Services.

Ball says nearly 900 kids need homea and about 200 of them are teens.

“The teen population has grown. It’s always been a need, but we have definitely seen an increase in the teen population coming into care over the last two years,” she said.

Action News Jax talked to a foster dad, James Ladson, who has seven kids. He adopted four, and he’s fostering three.

“I just love to see the joy in their hearts when they’re able to have a happier life and thrive,” said Ladson.

One of the teens Ladson is fostering said this atmosphere is a refreshing change.

“Coming in from no love, a background, and then come in to someone who actually cares and shows you they care,” he said.

If you are interested in possibly becoming a foster parent, call 904-421-5864 or you can visit the Family Support Services website.

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More Northeast Florida foster homes needed, especially for teens More Northeast Florida foster homes needed, especially for teens

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