Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need be licensed to provide foster care?
Yes, you must be licensed to care for children coming into the foster care system.
If I have a child placed in my home will the family know the whereabouts of the child? Will they have contact with the child?
The addresses of foster homes are public knowledge through the Department of Human Services. However, the address of your home is not given to parents of children entering foster care by our agency. Parents will know the name of the family for which the child is placed. There will be scheduled visits and phone contact between the parents and the child. If knowledge of the foster home location would endanger the child or foster family, that placement location will not be disclosed.
As a foster care provider will I be responsible for medical bills accrued by the child placed in my home?
No. The majority of children coming into foster care are on medical assistance or will be covered by private insurance.
Can I choose the age group?
Yes, you are encouraged to request the age, gender, and the type of foster care you wish to provide. You may also choose to work with a specific population (i.e. developmentally disabled, mentally ill, elderly, physically handicapped, teen parents).
What kind of experience or training do I have to have?
Foster families are required to receive 12 hours of training each year. Anyone interested in becoming a foster parent should be open and willing to learn new skills and techniques to enhance their ability to care children coming into their home.