Foster Parent FAQs
What are the requirements for being a foster parent?
There are a few requirements each foster parent must meet. Foster parents must be:
- At least 21 years old and in good physical and mental health.
- Able to support themselves financially.
- Willing to assist and support the foster children’s contact with their birth parents and assist in reuniting them with their families or prepare them for permanent homes through adoption.
Children are placed in foster homes by matching their needs with the foster parents’ or families’ situations or requirements.
Who are the children experiencing foster care?
Children of all ages, origins, ethnicities and backgrounds need foster parents.
What financial assistance do foster parents receive?
Foster parents receive a monthly room and board stipend that helps them care for the child. The child will also be covered by Medicaid to pay for medical and dental care.
Who can become a foster parent?
Everyday people just like you are fostering children. You may be eligible if you are:
- At least 21 years old.
- Married or single.
- Rent or own a home.
- Financially stable.
- Committed to loving and nurturing a child in your home.
- Willing to work in partnership with everyone involved in the child’s life to meet the child’s needs.
- Dedicated to helping a child reunite with their biological family.
- Committed to attending required training sessions.
- Able to physically accommodate children in your home.
How long does the foster home licensing process take?
The length of time varies because each family and situation is different. The process includes several steps: attending an informational meeting, completing training, and participating in a mutual assessment and home study.
What’s a home study?
A home study is the synopsis of the information compiled on the prospective foster parent. It includes references, a background check, a brief family history, and assessment of the ability to partner with families and providers and meet licensing requirements.
Still, have questions? Connect with us through our contact us form, email foster@brevardfp.org or call 321-752-4650.
