PAFs and SAFs were identified after a much more comprehensive process. An age limit of 20-55 years was
placed upon prospective families. Families would have to provide certificates showing no criminal record
and no history of serious illness. In addition, a recommendation from the lelagna elshabia, or community
committee, would be required, indicating that the prospective family was suitable for adopting children.
Once this basic criteria was met, social workers would undertake family assessments, and begin a possible
matching process with children in Maygoma orphanage. The social work team would identify children that
they felt would be appropriate for the family—again breaking a tradition of foster families selecting children
that they wished to care for. A three week introduction period would commence, with potential PAFs meeting
regularly with identified children in Maygoma orphanage, under the assessment of the social work team.
If it was felt that a bond was developing between child and foster family, social workers would recommend
a placement.