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Foster Care
Dept. of Human Services

Becoming a foster parent



Q.  Why be a foster parent?

The family is the best place for a child to grow. But some children are abused and neglected in their own families. They need someone who can provide them with a safe and supportive temporary home. Physicians, nurses, teachers, school administrators, social workers, foster parents and other professionals are required by law to report any situations in which children are in need of protection.

Foster parents are essential partners of the state's services to children. CAF depends on foster parents to do the day-to-day parenting for these children until they can either return safely to their own homes or until another permanent plan can be implemented. Without foster parents there would be no place for some children to learn to feel safe and know what it means to have someone care just because they are there.

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Q.  Who are the children who need foster parents?

Children who need foster care may be infants, toddlers, preschoolers, grade school age, or teenagers. They come from many types of backgrounds and families.

Many foster children have been emotionally, physically, and sexually abused. As a result, they may have emotional, behavioral, mental, or physical problems. Many are insecure, frightened, confused, and often angry about what is happening to them. Based on their past and the disruption in their lives, these children sometimes present challenging behaviors.

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Q.  How do these children come to the attention of CAF?

Foster children come to the attention of CAF from a variety of sources. Friends, neighbors, or relatives may report that a family does not appear to be providing adequate care for their children. Physicians, nurses, teachers, school administrators, social workers, and foster parents are required by law to report any situations in which children are in need of protection.

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Q.  What kind of foster parents do these children need?

There is a special loving quality found in the wide range of people who become successful foster parents, but there the similarity stops. Each has a unique personality, background, and lifestyle.

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Q.  Who can be a foster parent?

There is no one criteria for being a foster parent. Single people, childless couples, couples with children, and couples in which both partners are working may be considered for foster parenting.

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Q.  What are foster parents paid?

Foster parents receive a monthly payment to cover the costs of the child's care.
The rate foster parents are paid varies. It depends on such factors as the age and special needs of the child. The child's medical and dental costs are covered by the state's insurance programs.

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Q.  How do I become a foster parent?

The application/certification process for foster parents varies somewhat from county to county within the state. The first step is to call your local CAF office and ask to talk to a foster home certifier. Your initial questions will be answered and you may be invited to a preservice orientation to help you decide if foster parenting is right for you.

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Q.  Who do I contact for more information on becoming a foster parent?

Contact the State Foster Parent Inquiry line at 1-800-331-0503 or by calling your local branch of the Children, Adults and Families.

Page updated: September 21, 2007