support organisations
Adoption can be a challenging and exhausting experience for many couples.
Fortunately, there are a number of support and information groups across NSW which can help you through the process.
Membership of an adoption support organisation is not a requirement for a successful adoption, however, applicants are encouraged to join these groups.
local adoption support groups
Adoptive Parents Association of NSW
P.O. Box 629
Top Ryde 1680
ph: 02 9837 6760
email: apansw@gmail.com
The Adoptive Parents Association of NSW is a support group for couples and families in the NSW local adoption process. They are the umbrella group for a number of adoptive parent playgroups, produce a newsletter and hold a member's picnic each year.
international adoption support groups
Australian-African Children’s Aid and Support Association Inc
country: Ethiopia
representative: Pam Ferris
comer687@bigpond.com
Australians Caring for Children Inc (ACC) (Support Organisation)
countries: all (ACC has a wide membership of families that have adopted from a range of countries- including Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Chile, Peru, Guatemala, China, Philppines, Fiji, Australia, Brazil, India, Sri Lanka)
info@australiansadopt.org
Australian Families for Children (AFC) (Administration)
representative: Ricky Brisson
ph: 02 9314 2072
fax: 02 9314 2074
info@australiansadopt.org
Australian Society for Intercountry Aid for Children NSW
info@asiac.org.au
countries: China, Hong Kong, India, Korea, Philippines,Taiwan, Thailand,
representative: Evelyne Schilz-Middleton (president)
president@asiac.org.au
EURADOPT
country: any European country
representative: Isobel Monsted
isobelmonsted@optusnet.com.au
Families with Children from China (FCC)
country: China
representative: Mandy van den Elshout
ph 02 9997 6954
m.dobbie@optusnet.com.au
Friends of F.A.N.A
country: Colombia
representative: Henry and Karoline Brodaty
ph: 02 9337 2146 or 02 9388 8686
kbrodaty@yahoo.com or h.brodaty@unsw.edu.au
Future for Romanians
representative: Paul Monstad
paulffr@hotmail.com
International Children’s Aid (ICA)
country: Sri Lanka
representative: Gabrielle Thompson
ph: 02 9371 8860
Aid for the Children of Brazil
(post-adoption support only)
country: Brazil
representative: Rev. Roger and Margaret Ellem
ph: 02 4955 1789
play groups
- ASIAC playgroups: For all newcomers, those starting to think about intercountry adoption, those currently going through the process, or those who have lost touch and wish to rejoin, are most welcome at ASIAC playgroups. Visit the ASIAC website www.asiac.org.au for a listing of playgroups or contact the playgroup co-ordinator, Maggie Marwick playgroup@asiac.org.au.
- The Central West Adoption Support Group meets bi-monthly at different locations across central western NSW. The group has been formed by families who have adopted children from overseas or within Australia and those who are considering or in the process of adopting. They offer support, encouragement, information and the opportunity for children of all cultures and ages to get together and play. For details of the next meeting contact Kristina Loxley mkloxley@bigpond.com or Cathi Pirani info@bellinitravel.com.au.
- Shoalhaven Adoptive Families Support Group invites you to join them for monthly meetings and a fortnightly playgroup. Contact Linda Sandry 0401 098 139 or Charli Taylor on 0410 420 873.
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Pandaroos
Pandaroos is Mandarin/Chinese cultural playgroup run on the second Sunday of every month at the Chinese Australian Services Society. Contact Mandy van den Elshout 9997 6954 for further information. -
Playful Pandas
Playful Pandas is a Families with Children from China Mandarin playgroup run every Saturday morning from 10am - 12pm during school term at Dee Why. Songs, games, Chinese cultural activities and great support and information for those currently going through the adoption process. Contact Mandy van den Elshout - 9997 6954 for more information. -
Far North Coast Adoption Support group family get togethers
Please contact Julie on 6622 7720 or 0416 222 779 for more information. -
AFC Events - ACC playgroup 2008
Everyone is welcome! The playgroup is generally held on the first Wednesday of each month. (This date may change when school holidays fall in the same month).
If a playgroup is being hosted by a family then please bring along a plate of goodies and let them know you will be attending. If the playgroup is held in a park or at a play centre, then we are self sufficient! Should it rain, contact me to find out if an alternative arrangement has been made.
Contact Kim Biddulph on 02 99133728 or 0410 159 862. - Teenzconnection - is an Australian Families for Children initiative to bring together adopted teenagers to share experiences and support each other. All welcome, all countries. See their website for more information.
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Newcastle Adoptive Families Group - are you thinking about adoption, a waiting parent, the parent of an adopted child? If you live in the Newcastle area see the information sheet for details.