A Village for Families: The Madison County Foster & Adoptive Parent Association

The Madison County Foster & Adoptive Parent Association (MCFAPA) is on a mission to empower, support, and advocate for foster, adoptive, and kinship families in Madison County, Alabama.

Here’s an inside look at the heart of this organization!

What is MCFAPA all about? What’s the big mission that drives your work?

MCFAPA exists to empower, support, and advocate for foster, adoptive, and kinship families throughout Madison County, Alabama. Our big mission is to ensure every child—regardless of
their circumstance—has a safe, loving, and stable home and that every caregiver has the tools, resources, and community they need to thrive. We believe families thrive when they are surrounded by a supportive “village,” compassionate guidance, and strong community connections.

Let’s talk impact! What are some of the biggest ways MCFAPA has made a difference in the community? Any stories that stand out?

MCFAPA has helped thousands of families over the last ~8 years navigate the challenges of fostering, adoption, and kinship care—whether by providing essential items, emotional support,
or educational meetings. We’ve organized fall festivals and back-to-school drives, provided holiday gifts, and created The Den, our essential needs “closet” of resources so no child entering foster
care goes without.

While we have so many stories, one that stands out is from our first Bros & Bows event, a yearly event where we provide free haircuts and ethnic haircare education. One foster kiddo had been growing her hair out long and decided to cut it all off at our event to donate it to Locks of Love for another child suffering from hair loss. That day, that child became not just a recipient but a giver, showing us all the compassion, hope, and love that exists within our community.

The Den is one of MCFAPA’s primary programs, providing essential items for children entering foster care on their first night. The Den is stocked with new items, including clothing, PJs, shoes, socks, underwear, toiletries, specialized hair care products, stuffed animals, books, and more.

Who do you serve, and what’s something people might not realize about the needs in our community?

We serve foster parents, adoptive families, and relatives—like grandparents, aunts, and uncles—who step up when a child needs a safe home. Many people don’t realize that on any given day in Madison County, there are over 400 children in foster care but only around 200 active, licensed homes. Also, most don’t realize how many children in Madison County are cared for by relatives, often with little preparation or resources. The need is not just for emergency supplies but for ongoing emotional support, trauma-informed care, and a community that understands their unique journey.

KICK (Kids in Care Kit) Bags accompany new placements to their new foster home. MCFAPA’s goal in providing these bags is to support the foster parent during their first couple of days until they can access a local clothing resource.

What is the most rewarding part of your work at MCFAPA?

The most rewarding part is seeing families transformed—not just surviving but truly thriving. It’s watching caregivers realize they’re not alone, children blossom with stability and resources, and the whole community comes together to rally around those who need it most. Every thank-you note, every smile, and every success story fuels our passion to keep going.

For anyone reading this and thinking, “Wow, I want to be a part of this!”—what’s the best way to get involved?

There are so many ways to join us! You can volunteer your time at events or at our monthly meetings, donate funds or items for The Den, or simply help share our mission with your friends and family. Every act, big or small, makes a real difference for children and caregivers in Madison County. You can visit our website, follow us on social media, or reach out directly to find other ways you can help our cause.

Every act, big or small, makes a real difference for children and caregivers in Madison County.

If you could tell the world ONE thing about MCFAPA, what would it be?

MCFAPA is more than an organization; it’s a community where families find hope, help, and a place to be seen. We believe every child deserves a loving family, and every caregiver deserves unwavering support. Together, we’re building a network of compassion, lifting each other up through shared experiences, advocacy, and practical resources. By standing alongside our families, we are changing lives and shaping a brighter future for each child in care.