Families First, Inc.
For 130 years, Families First has been providing empowering solutions for Atlanta’s most vulnerable population. In 1890, Families First started as an orphanage on the Westside of the city on what is now the Spelman College campus. In 1937, we went on to become the first licensed adoption agency in the state of Georgia. In 1964, we opened the first group home (now called cooperatives) for young people in the state, and in 1989 we developed a curriculum that more than 200 communities across the country use to help divorcing parents learn how to co-parent their children. Now, we are committed to setting up youth for success by young adulthood by providing them with key services to overcome life’s challenges and reach their goals.
We recognize the cycles of poverty are not broken by one program or service alone so we offer a combination of services and supports build resilient families and ensure foster and underserved youth are successful and independent by young adulthood. Through our collaborations with community partners, virtual services, and locations throughout the state of Georgia, Families First is able to impact youth and families by providing counseling services, health and wellness education for pregnant teens, early childhood education, life skills for youth in foster care, parenting classes, supportive housing, adoption facilitation and placement, and so much more.
Services and information
- Adoption
Requirements to become a foster parent
The DHS assists foster families with placement and ensures the child adjusts well to their new environment. Whether you have years of parenting experience or are relatively new to the idea, they have many support options for families. You can find plenty of information on the DHS/DFCS website or call them for more assistance.
Your local licensed child placement agency also places children in the foster system with carefully matched parents. Although foster care is temporary, it's crucial to find the right fit. That's why parents get a say in age range and gender.
There are also many state support groups for foster families that provide educational resources, services, and more. Connecting with these organizations and adding to your personal support network will be invaluable.
One of the best ways to become a better parent, whether you plan on fostering a child short-term or adopting, is to read as much as you can about Georgia's foster system. For instance, recently proposed bills would help to streamline parts of the state's foster care placement system.
You can find plenty of information available online for free as well. Blogs, podcasts, and videos are all incredibly useful ways to obtain new information about fostering.
Ratings and Reviews
Average user rating
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Feb 16, 2019
Somewhat disorganized with staffing. I don't recommend this company.
Dec 28, 2018
It's a caring team here.
Dec 05, 2018
This organization did not meet our needs and it was a long process with multiple request for the same information. Lieutenant Columbo AKA the social worker who conducted our home visit spent more time admiring the home as if it was on the market. She took a few pictures on her cell phone of the inside of our home, we thought this was strange but excited to move forward with the process. During the interview the social worker attempted to make us feel comfortable by playing music on her cell phone. The music was great, however; the constant beeping of her phone was distracting. In addition, Lieutenant Columbo carried hard copies of our paperwork including financial information. This was frightening considering the sensitivity of the information but she assured us the agency adheres to HIPAA Laws. I would recommend anyone considering opening their hearts and homes to children for adoption should consider other agencies.
Dec 01, 2018
Idk
May 28, 2018
I'm home care CNA who assured my patient to her appointment. Customer's service is pleasant