What is Foster Parenting?
- An opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life
- Caring for a child who has been abused/neglected until his/her parent(s) can resume the responsibility, or a permanent home can be found
- A commitment to helping children and their families through a difficult period
- Providing love and guidance and then letting go
- Learning and developing the parenting skills needed to meet the unique needs of each child
Foster Parent Requirements
- You must be at least (21) years of age
- Pass a medical appraisal by a licensed physician
- Pass screening requirements related to child abuse and criminal history clearances
Who can be a Foster Parent?
- Anyone!
Who are the Children that need Foster Care?
- Foster children are often siblings, who need to be placed together
- Babies through teens, who are any race or religion
- Like other children, some may have medical needs
- Most have been physically or sexually abused or neglected
As a result of difficult life experiences, some of the children’s behaviors may be challenging and may require ongoing counseling/therapy!
Other things to Consider
- Am I willing to work with social worker and other community professionals, advocate for the child’s needs in school, counseling and medical community?
- Do I have energy and time enough to give foster children the attention they need?
- Do I have family, friends or other support systems that you can call on for support?
- Am I able to ask for help and not be embarrassed?
Foster Family Residence Requirements
- Your Residence Must Have:
- One flush toilet, one wash basin and one bath or shower with hot/cold running water
- An operable heating system
- An operable telephone
Sleeping areas shall meet the following criteria
- No unsuitable area such as a hall, stairway, unfinished basement or attic, garage, bathroom, eating area, closet, shed or detached building
- Separate bedrooms for Foster Children of the opposite sex who are 5 years of age or older
- Each foster child shall be provided with a clean, comfortable mattress and clean linens, blankets and pillow