Requirements
All potential foster parents, regardless of which agency is selected, must meet
the same approval requirements set by the state. It is important to remember
that the agency you select will be working with you during the approval process
to assist you in completing the requirements. You may be somewhat surprised at
the thoroughness of the approval process and the length of time it takes to become
a foster parent. Please keep in mind that caring for someone else's child will
have an impact on your family life which will require some adjustments and a firm
commitment on your part. The more informed we are about you and your family, the
better able we are to place children appropriate for your family. Following are
the basic approval requirements.
- Applicants must be 21 years of age.
- Applicants may be single or married.
- Applicants may live in own apartment or house.
- Applicants are fingerprinted for a criminal background check.
- Every member of the household 18 years or older must be fingerprinted for a
criminal background check.
- Applicants must be able to meet family's financial obligations.
- Applicants are requested to submit an initial medical examination and
reexamination every two years for every member of the household to determine
their physical and emotional ability to care for children.
- Applicants are requested to provide three references as to their parenting
ability.
- Applicants are required to complete a minimum of 27 hours of pre-service
education.
- The applicant's home will be inspected by personnel from the State Health
Department for safety and sanitation, and by the Fire Department.
- A minimum of two visits to the applicant's home is completed by the approval
worker to discuss the types of children most appropriate for them, the
proposed sleeping arrangements, and the family lifestyle.
- A child support clearance
- Agree not to use physical punishment
A home becomes approved when the above requirements have been completed by the
applicant(s) and accepted by the approval agency.
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