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 What do foster parents do?
Foster parents care for children who cannot live with their families for a period of time. In almost every way, they do what every parent does. They help with homework, provide meals, oversee hygiene, provide guidance and nurturance, and help ensure as normal a childhood as possible while they are caring for a child.
Is a foster home the first choice?
If children can't remain with their parents, agencies look to extended family members first. If no resources are found within an extended family, a foster home is the next choice.
Where do the kids come from?
The children come from many places:
- Some come from their homes after it is learned that the kids have been neglected or abused.
- Some come from other foster homes because the homes can no longer care for the children. Reasons include illness, relocation of the foster family, or difficulty managing the child's behavior.
- Some are voluntarily placed by a parent who temporarily cannot care for the child. Reasons include being evicted, going into treatment for substance abuse, etc.
What kinds of kids are they?
Foster children come in all shapes and sizes. Ages run from newborns to 18 year. They may come in sibling groups. Some have medical, emotional, or behavioral problems. They bring their own personalities, strengths, interests, and gifts.
We work with families during the family assessment process to determine the type of child best suited for the foster family.
What do I need to be a foster parent?
Foster parents need to be over the age of 18 years, have a safe home that can accommodate a child, have no history of harming children, be in good health, able to complete a family assessment process, and genuinely enjoy and care about children.
During the family assessment process, all immediate family members are interviewed, references and background checks are completed, and your home is inspected for safety.
How long does it take to become a foster parent?
It generally takes about two to three months to complete everything, including a series of pre-service trainings.
Do I have to be married?
No. Single parents can be approved as a foster parent.
Do I have to own a home?
No, renters can be foster parents, as long as there’s sufficient room for a foster child.
Is there reimbursement for the child’s care?
Yes, there is a daily reimbursement rate to assist you in meeting the needs of the child, such as clothing, school supplies, hygiene items, etc. This reimbursement is not considered taxable income.
What about medical and dental needs?
Medical and dental costs are paid through Medicaid.
How many foster children can I have?
No more than four foster children can be placed in a home at one time. The Department expects a foster child to have his own bedroom or share a room with another child of the same sex. Every effort is made to place brothers and sisters in the same home.
Can I use my neighbor to babysit?
Special steps need to be taken to ensure the safety of foster children, so we require babysitters to go through an approval process. We start talking about caregivers during the family assessment process so they can be ready when you are.
Can I adopt a child by becoming a foster parent?
A family or individual interested in adopting a child from the foster care system does not need to be licensed through the State of Michigan. However, being licensed in some cases might speed up the placement process. Bethany provides an adoption case worker to guide the individual or family through the adoption process. Services also include assistance, guidance, and support until the adoption is legally finalized.
I’m afraid it will be hard for me and my family if the child has to leave.
It may be, but most foster families tell us that it is well worth the experience. Sometimes you can keep in touch, and foster parents feel that fostering is a great lesson for their children in caring about others.
Sounds interesting. What do I do next?
Call 269.372.8800 and register for one of the upcoming orientation classes. We look forward to meeting you!
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