INTERESTED IN FOSTER CARE?
Commonly asked questions
Adults aged 21 and older who can provide a safe, stable home and complete required training and clearances may become foster parents. Families of ALL backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
The process includes an application, background clearances, required training, a home study, and ongoing support. Our team guides you through each step from start to finish.
Homes are assed for basic safety, including working utilities, safe sleeping arrangements, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and secure storage of medications. A walkthrough of the home is completed as part of the certification process.
Required clearances include FBI fingerprinting, Pennsylvania criminal history, and child abuse history checks for household members, along with physical exams and income verification
Training covers topics such as child development, trauma, cultural competence, child welfare regulations, first aid, mandated reporting, and prudent parenting. Training is provided as part of the certification process.
Yes. Foster Parents receive daily stipend to help offset the cost of caring for a child. Additional support such as clothing vouchers may also be available.
Children in foster care are covered by DHS medical insurance, insurance which is widely accepted. Foster parents may switch a child to their own insurance if desired, with guidance from their case manager.
Foster parents provide daily care and transportation to school, medical appointments, family visits, and extracurricular activities. Support and guidance are given through the placement.
Yes! Feeling nervous or anxious is completely normal. Fostering is a big step, and our team is here to support you through the process.