48 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com on the trip, only two had records and the chance to meet their birth families. When he returned to the U.S., Peavey was asked to come and speak about his adoption journey. In February 2020, he learned about the Gift of Adoption organization. Radford and her husband were beginning to start their family and adopted their first child from California in 2005. They were fortunate enough to adopt another child in 2007. Their children are now 19 and 16 years old. “I felt fortunate that we had the finances to be able to start that process, but I definitely had a heart for those who couldn’t adopt because of the financial responsibility,” said Radford. There are many children waiting for families and many families that are ready to adopt but can’t afford it. The process alone averages between $30,000 to $40,000. As a result of their adoption experiences, Radford and Peavey felt compassion for the mission of Gift of Adoption. The South Carolina chapter was started in January 2022 and now has eight board members. They raise funds to provide adoption assistance grants for qualified families. The average grant is $5,000 and often pushes families over the finish line for the financial costs. All money raised goes directly to local families through grants. Private investing pays for the operating costs so that every dime raised goes directly to grant recipients. The grant selection committee meets monthly to review applications and make selections. “We work to raise funds so we can say yes to all qualified families,” added Radford. Families are eligible to apply and receive the grant up to three times. Special situations do take precedence and the committee aims to keep siblings together, have children be adopted before they age out of the system and give priority to children with special needs. There are no parameters on religion or race and the committees have selected and assisted a plethora of public servants. If you are looking for ways to support this worthy organization, they will be holding their annual gala event in November at The Citadel Beach Club on Isle of Palms. Learn more about the organization while advocating for local families looking to adopt and make an impact in a child’s life. They are also seeking like-minded individuals to potentially join their board. The gift of family is one that is mutually beneficial and lasts a lifetime. What a lovely gift to give! family For more information, or if you are interested in applying for a grant, visit their website giftofadoption.org/ southcarolina/ to fill out an application. Independent Insurance Brokers Our competitive rates make today the perfect time to assess your individual insurance needs! Welcoming New Coastal Customers Serving South Carolina for over 30 years TheBrunettoAgency.com 10014 Two Notch Rd., Suite D-1 Columbia, SC @thebrunettoagency 803.699.3007 Joe Brunetto Agent insureu1@bellsouth.net Palmer Brunetto Agent insuredbypalmer22@gmail.com
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