FAQ's
We can save you a phone call - below you'll find the answers to our most Frequently Asked Questions
Because our ministry is run 100% by volunteers, please review the FAQ's before messaging or calling - Thank you!
How do I bring donations?
We have a donation bin on site where you can easily drop off bags of clothing, toys, shoes, etc. No appointment necessary! Our address is 201 E Penn Avenue Cleona PA. (We are NOT accepting winter clothing at this time). Additionally, If you’re a member and planning to shop, you can bring your donations along, and hand them to the volunteer. Want more info? Check our "Contact" tab above.
How do I sign up to shop?
1. You must first click this link to join our private Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/420101171778771
2. Here you can be approved to come to The Shop, and also receive regular updates on ministry events and items available. We also share and meet needs through this group, especially for larger/more expensive items.
3. Once approved, see under the “Featured” tab (at the top of this private Facebook Page) for the Sign Up Genius link.
4. You will NEED to use Sign Up Genius to sign up for an appointment for the Free Shop.
This link can also be sent to you by a texting 717269-3332 to ask for the link.
My church or work or friend group would like to know how to give a monetary donation to help with the ministry expenses and supplies. Can we send a check?
YES! Checks can be made to "Adoption Swaption" and mailed to our home church, Open Door Baptist Church, at 875 Academy Drive Lebanon PA 17046.
All donations are tax-deductible.
You can even give online under the "Support Us" Tab above or by clicking HERE.
My small business, youth group, or scout group, etc. would like to do a service project to help with supplies. How do we get started?
Text Adoption Swaption to ask for an updated "Needs List" with our logo to make copies to disperse to your group.
How do I become a verified shopper so that I may sign up to shop or claim items posted on the group page?
At your first shopping trip you MUST bring verification paperwork to show you are an adoptive, foster or custodial family. We then add your name to our Verified Shopper Records.
I have been feeling overwhelmed lately and wish I had other foster moms to talk about some things. Does AS have anything like this?
YES! We have a Second Mothers Prayer Group on Thursday evenings on Facebook video messenger. We lift each other up in support and prayer. We talk about resources and strategies to support one another. Message us for more information or join or Facebook Group under the "Contact" Tab above.
How do I become a volunteer?
We would love to put your unique talents and compassion for children to great use! Message us through our private Adoption Swaption Facebook Group and indicate your interest in becoming a volunteer. There are many ways you can help!
If you are interested in hosting open hours at the Free Shop, we hold volunteer training as needed. We ask for current child abuse clearances (which can be easily obtained at zero cost to you), a statement of faith, and an in-person interview with our director to make sure all of our volunteers share the same vision for our ministry. We are a Mercy Ministry of Open Door Baptist Church in Lebanon PA. We serve foster, adoptive, custodial, kinship and guardianship families in Central PA. We strive to meet the spiritual needs of all the families we come in contact with through prayer and biblical counseling. We also offer tangible items in our Free Shop.
I have a larger item to give away OR I’m looking for a larger item like a dresser, toddler bed, bike or car seat. What is the process?
For large items, we ask that you post photos on our private Adoption Swaption Facebook Group of the item with your location and pick up instructions.
We have adopted kids and shop at AS, but we’re expecting a biological grandchild later this year. Are we permitted to shop for them as well?
This ministry exists to support the immediate members of the foster/adoptive family. We need to keep resources available for that specific group. Violation of this rule can lead to removal from our resources.