How to become a Foster Parent
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When parents are unable, unwilling or unfit to care for a child, the a new home must be found for the child. In some cases, there is little or no chance a child can return to their parents' custody, so they need a new permanent home. In other situations, children only need a temporary home until their parents' situation changes. In any case, the children need somewhere to stay until a permanent home is possible, which is where foster parents home in.
General Requirements for foster parents
Each state has different rules, regulations and procedures or guidelines to follow. Most states require that the foster parents be licensed by the state, others simply approve the home for placement of children.
Basic requirements usually include:
- completion of an application for family home license
- background check, criminal history check and finger printing of each adult member of the household
- family stability
- home inspection and personal interview
- character references
- minimum age of applicant: 21
- prior to licensure/certification pre-service training
Foster parents receive a partial reimbursement of costs incurred for each child in your care.
Getting Started: Foster Parenting Through your State Agency
If you decide you are interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent, please contact your state's foster care specialist. They will be more than happy to discuss with you the process of training and approval of your home. Refer to our State by State page for contact information for states's foster care specialist
Getting Started: Become a Foster Parent Through a Private Agency
In most States, there are private agencies also providing adoptive and foster care services. These agencies could use your help as well. To find out about these agencies, contact your state's licensing specialist address and phone. The specialist can provide you with a list of agencies licensed to provide foster care or adoptive services in your state.
Online Foster Parent Training
For foster parents who need training hours, FosterClub provides online training Course for free. Learn more here...
That's a good question. Only one way to find out. Good luck as you consider moving forward with this!
im a single parent but my child is on her own and is at the age of an adult. i am also a full time nanny and housekeeper and have been thinking to foster as well. my home has room for a child and so does my heart my curiosity is will it affect for me to continue to work as a nanny?
Every state has different rules about foster parenting. I suggest you talk to an agency in your state to get some specific answers. Best of luck!
I am a single mom, Can that be a problem for to become a foster parent?, I work, is it posible take my foster kid with my own to the daycare?. I really want to give back a little of all God gives me to somebody who needs it!!!
Hello, I was wondering what the requirements are for working people who would like to become foster parents. I would love to help any age child who needs a place to be. I work 4 days a week and one of those days is until 8pm. Is this a problem?
Good questions. Every state is different, so I suggest you check with the state of Michigan on their foster care requirements. Good luck!
Julie K. - What are the income requirements for a foster parent? I do not have a job and currently receive student loans. Can I be a foster parent if I do not have income? I understand that I would receive some payment from the state for the child's expenses.
To Guardian Pat-
Does your region use respite or emergency (Hotline) homes? I became a Hotline Home for teens after I heard from a worker that they didnt have enough beds for teens. It's to be on call in case anyone needs a safe place overnight after the office is closed or for the weekend. The licensing and training is the same as foster training. It's a bit odd not knowing if the phone will ring at random hours but I am really enjoying being able to be useful to the kids this way. I try to make it as low-stress as possible even though they're only here one night or for the weekend. I recommend it to anyone who wants to help but cant provide a fulltime foster home for some reason.
This is really a great site... The main reason why I am here is to find somebody or perhaps a group of people whom I can talk to about foster parenting. I enjoy kids a lot, in fact they are one of my main inspirations in life. Its a very deep joy if you can see a kid's smile from your help.
I have gone through foster care and have had some really bad experiences with foster parents. If it's not your passion, then don't do it! If you just want the money please don't become a foster parent. Foster kids would appreciate a dedicated, caring adult and not just someone who sees you like a number. Thanks.
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