Foster Care

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As a foster parent with Caring Hearts, you play a vital role in a child's life. Your responsibilities include:

• Providing a safe, stable and nurturing environment for the child.
• Helping the child adjust to the changes and challenges of being away from their home, family and familiar surroundings.
• Collaborating with Caring Hearts staff, the child's managing conservator and the treatment team to work toward the child's safe return home when possible.
• Encouraging education, attending school meetings and ensuring the child's medical and emotional needs are met.

To ensure the safety and well-being of the children in our care, Caring Hearts has specific requirements for prospective foster parents:

• Age: Must be at least 21 years old, financially stable and responsible.
• Marital Status: Can be single, married, divorced or widowed for at least one year prior to becoming a foster parent.
• Health: All household members must be in good physical and mental health, free from communicable diseases.
• Employment: At least one foster parent should be employed outside the home. If both work outside the home, plans for childcare and supervision must be in place.
• Background Check: A criminal background check is required for all household members over the age of 13.
• Training: Completion of required training sessions, provided free of charge by CHFC's experienced foster home developers.

We understand that becoming a foster parent is a significant decision, and we are here to guide you every step of the way:

• Contact Us: Reach out to our experienced staff members, who will answer your questions and provide information about becoming a foster parent.
• Licensing Your Home: Your home must be licensed before children can be placed with you. We will provide step-by-step instructions and support throughout the licensing process.
• Training and Support: We offer free foster parent training and in-home visits at your convenience. Our goal is to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed for success.

While there are some services that may incur costs, such as criminal background checks and CPR training (if not provided by Caring Hearts), we strive to keep the process as accessible and affordable as possible.

If you are ready to make a difference in a child's life and provide them with a loving and stable home, we encourage you to consider fostering with Caring Hearts. Contact us today to begin your journey of love, compassion and positive impact. Together, we can create brighter futures for children in need.