Getting Started
If you are interested in becoming a Foster Parent, please contact our office either by phone or email. You may download an application form and mail the completed and signed form to our office. ChildrenFirst will contact you and a recruitment officer will ask you a series of questions to determine whether the minimum qualification are met, and if appropriate, will advise you when the next available awareness session will be held. You have the option of attending a formal presentation information session, or to have a representation visit you in your home.
The following steps to becoming a "Village Parent" are a general guideline:
Pre-Screening: After the foster care awareness session the Foster Care Screener/Intake worker will interview you and discuss any questions you may have. They will ensure that you meet the basic eligibility requirements.
Security Checks: Criminal Record Check, Intervention (Child Welfare) Records Check, and Foster Care Record Check are required for every caregiver.
References: personal references, medical references, work references (for primary income provider) and information about your interest in becoming a foster parent.
Orientation to Caregiver Training: Training consists of eight, three-hour modules (24 hours total training) that address a variety of topics, including child development; the special needs of children in care; duties and responsibilities of foster parents; and supports provided to foster parents. Training also explores your motivation for fostering and whether the demands required of a foster family are compatible with your families values and goals. All foster parent caregivers must complete this training prior to becoming approved. The scheduling of this training varies, with options to attend Saturday or evening sessions.
Home Study: You will be asked to complete the Foster Care Home Self-Assessment Report. The Assessment Worker will arrange several appointments to meet with you and your family, depending on family size and complexity. These meetings make up the home study and will include a discussion of your family's history, family relationships, significant events, and how your family works/ communicates together. Discussions will focus on whether or not the demands of fostering, with regional expectations, will match your family’s values/ dynamics.
At the conclusion of the home study, a decision is made regarding acceptance of your application. This is a joint decision made by you and your Assessment Worker, as to whether the Fostering Journey is right for your family, and the agency feels it can have a positive working relationship with you.
