Becoming a Foster Care Parent
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Minimum Qualifications
Must be 21 years old
Pass a criminal background check
Have a spare bedroom with door & window
Maintain an emotionally, physically & financially stable household
Have 1 adult in the home full-time or available as needed to provide care for children
Certification Process:
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long does it take to become certified?
It typically takes 1-3 months to complete the certification process depending on how quickly you move through the process. Sometimes the process can take up to 6 months. The length of time is largely influenced by how quickly you are able to complete the required steps.
How long will a kid be placed in my home?
Kids can be placed in your home anywhere from 6 month to a year. At times longer says are needed and extensions are granted.
What type of financial support will I receive?
You will receive a cost of care financial reimbursement of $73/night per youth for your first 6 months of certification and $75/night per youth after your first 6 months. We also offer a monthly stipend/bonus (on top of the nightly rate) to maintain certification.
Do I receive training before I receive a placement?
You will receive 32 hours of specialized training prior to receiving a placement.
How many kids can I have in my home?
You can have 1-2 youth placed in your home at a time.
Do I get a say in who is placed in my home?
Your certifier will work with you during the certification process to identify placement matches. Placements will be screened based on your identified matches.
I am not a home owner; can I still apply?
Yes, you can live in a house, townhouse or apartment. You do not need to be a home owner.
I’m single; can I still apply?
Yes, foster families can be single, married, divorced or living with a partner.
I’ve never parented before; can I still apply?
Yes, this is not a disqualifying factor. We will provide training and support to help teach parenting skills.
I am not a US citizen; can I still apply?
Yes, this is not a disqualifying factor. We are happy to talk with you about your individual status.
I have a criminal record; can I still qualify?
This is not immediately disqualifying, though some crimes are. We are happy to talk with you about your individual situation.