SAN ANTONIO -- It’s not the news they wanted, but some families are breathing a sign of relief after learning The Department of Family and Protective Services is amending a decision that has upset many people.
Claudia Scholz said she and others are at odds with the Department of Family and Protective Services for changing providers for post adoption services. Scholz leads a local group, South Texas Adoptive Families, or STAF, a support group for people who adopt foster children. According to the group motto, it takes more than a village to raise the children they adopted who suffering from abuse, neglect or psychological disorders.
"We are beyond the village right now and need the profession help," Scholz said.
On August 31, families were told they could no longer seek post adoption help at Family Counseling Services. The Department of Family and Protective Services canceled a contract the company had for more than 22 years. A company spokesperson said five employees will lose jobs because of it.
A new contract was awarded to a Midland based company, Centers for Children and Families. The company is scheduled to take over post-adoption services September 1, 2012.
"People are wary, right now and people are very confused and suspicious and worried," she said.
That contract is now considered tentative after a protest or appeal was filed by Family Counseling Services.
Scholz said several families also sent letters to DFPS complaining about the changes and how little time the department allowed everyone to adapt.
According to DFPS, it reserves the right to make awards based on the best interest of its department.
We are told the Centers for Children and Families is also expected to match the current level of service families receive.
We couldn't reach anyone at the Midland based company for comment.
Scholz said many families are in a panic because the company doesn't have a local office and two social workers will work from a mobile station or home to direct families to doctors or health facilities.
The arrangement isn’t good enough for some people waiting to see if DFPS will reverse its decision, regarding the post adoption contract.
Families have an additional 30 days to seek assistance at Family Counseling Services while the company waits to see if it regains a contract with the state.
