What other support will I receive as a foster parent?
To ensure the success of our foster families, CFCA provides training, counseling and support to all families. As a foster parent, you are part of a team of professionals who share the responsibility of caring for the child. This includes:
- A Christian Family Care Family Specialist who will regularly visit your home and who will provide you with support and guidance.
- Child care assistance for working parents. (However, some children do require a stay-at-home parent.)
- A respite program that provides short-term care for the foster child to relieve you from the challenging duties of foster parenting.
What compensation do I receive as a foster parent?
After a child is placed in your home, the State will pay you a monthly reimbursement to cover the cost of room, board, clothing and supplies for the child. Rates are based on the age of the child and the extent of the care required. All of the child’s medical, dental and prescription drug expenses are covered by the State medical plan. Therapy costs are also covered by the State.
What happens to a foster child when they leave my home?
While children are in foster care, Child Protective Services is working with their family to rectify the problems that caused them to come into care to begin with. The family is provided with multiple services including: alcohol and drug rehabilitation, anger management counseling and parenting classes. If the parent shows progress in getting their life under control, the child will be returned to them. A social worker will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that the child is safe and secure. If the parent cannot overcome the barriers to parenting, an adoptive family will be sought for the child.
Can I adopt my foster child?
Children that cannot be returned to their birth parents may become legally free for adoption; many are adopted by their foster parents.
Isn’t it hard to let a child go after having them become a part of your family?
Yes, it is hard. However, the love and guidance that you give to a child as a foster parent can benefit them for the rest of their life.
