become a foster parent
Many children are in need of temporary homes where they can feel loved and supported while their own family is working to repair problems and safety issues. There are many steps to becoming a foster parent, and your local Department of Social Services can help you through the process.
Attend an Orientation for Prospective Foster Parents
Orientation meetings can answer questions about foster care.
At first, people considering becoming foster parents have many questions they need answered before they even know if they want to start the process. Contact the Department of Social Services (DSS) in your county to find out the next orientation date. This is an informal, no-obligations meeting that can give answers to the many questions a person may have.
Attend Trainings to Become a Certified Foster Parent
Training sessions help equip foster parents.
Requirements vary from state to state, but most require intense training sessions so that a future foster parent knows the ins and outs of the system, and is fully aware of what they're getting into. They may offer one meeting a week over several weeks, or an intense one weekend program.
Prospective Parents Must Apply
The application process for foster parents is very thorough.
The application process for becoming a foster parent is thorough, and DSS will want information on many topics. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, prove they are financially responsible, and have a stable, supportive family. All family members must have a physical to prove they are in good enough health to care for a child. Prospective parents must also undergo background checks and fingerprinting. Typically a home must provide a bedroom for a child, which they are allowed to share with another child of the same sex.
The Homestudy
A caseworker will visit a prospective foster parents' home.
Once the application process is complete, caseworkers will come into your home to check the environment and talk with potential foster parents further. Decisions will be made about how many children a household can foster, what types of children will fit best with the family and whether any safety upgrades need to be performed. The home-visit will help the caseworker get to know the family better so placements can be successful.
Placement of a Foster Child
Children are placed in a loving foster home.
After all the requirements are fulfilled, and a household is approved for becoming foster parents, the local agency will place a child or children with the new foster parents who they believe will work well together. For whatever length of time they are there, foster parents see to the children's needs, and work together with DSS until they can be reunited with their biological family.
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