Becoming a Licensed Foster Parent could be the most challenging task you have ever considered. It can also be the most rewarding. Review the following information to see if you are eligible and would like to consider becoming a foster parent.
Am I physically and emotionally capable of caring for children?
Being a parent can be demanding. You must be healthy and emotionally stable to care for children in foster care. You will be asked to complete a physical or provide medical clearance.
Does any adult household member have a criminal or abuse registry record?
Thorough background screening is conducted on all prospective foster families, including abuse registry, local criminal and federal criminal (fingerprint) clearances. If you or any adult household member has any criminal or abuse registry record, please contact 643-KIDS or your licensing agency for further information regarding background screening.
Do I have enough room in my home for a foster child?
You must have enough bedroom space for a foster child. A foster child may share a bedroom with your child or another foster child of the same sex. Children in foster care must have a bed of their own and cannot share a bed or sleep on a cot or trundle bed. With the exception of infants age 12 months or younger, a foster child may not share a bedroom with any adult. Also, an adult cannot move out of his or her bedroom and sleep on the couch to make room for the child.
Do I have adequate income to meet my current family needs?
While you don’t have to be rich to be a foster parent, you must have adequate income to meet your own family’s needs. Foster parents are reimbursed for the substitute care they provide. The monthly board rate is not income. During the home study process, you will be asked to show proof of income and financial stability.
Am I ready to have a health inspection of my home?
It is important that children live in a safe and clean environment. During the home study process, a home health inspection will be conducted by the Hillsborough County Health Department. You will be provided with guidelines that will assist you to ensure your residences is free of potential dangers and risks.
Am I ready to begin the home study process now?
Are your life and home stable? "Stable" means that you are not about to move and are not having financial, marital or emotional difficulties. Is your home in good condition, and are you ready to begin the 30-hour training program?
Because foster care impacts the entire family, everyone in your home should give this serious consideration. Again, it could be the most challenging task you have ever considered. It can also be the most rewarding.