Congratulations! You have made the decision to become a foster parent.
So…now what? What does the next step look like? What will you need to complete your paperwork? How long will it take?
There is no easy answer to these questions. Each state (and even county) has different rules and regulations. You may have everything in order but have a hangup on your homestudy. That paperwork you were waiting on might take a little bit longer to finish.
But rest assured, the hardest part is over. You have weighed all of the pros and cons and decided that welcoming a child into your home is the right decision for you and your family. So let’s take a look at your next steps.
1. Select a foster care agency that’s right for you
Anyone who has considered fostering has a similar motivating factor – the desire to help a child in need. That being said, not all foster parents are the same – or have identical bandwidth. Various agencies offer different levels and types of foster care.
For example, someone who wants to foster but is new to the process may want to consider respite foster care (a type of short-term care) before they jump into a long-term placement. Another family may be looking for a foster-to-adoption scenario while yet another is looking to foster only medically fragile children.
Each family’s wants and needs are different. A quick Google search of “foster care agencies near me” or a call to your county Department of Child and Family Services will let you know what organizations you have to choose from in your area. You can also use this directory from the Child Welfare Gateway.
“Somebody told me that I should take some time to interview foster agencies before I just sign on,” said Sara, a Cayuga Centers foster parent in Florda who has had over 20 placements. “There were definitely times through fostering had I been with the wrong agency or maybe an agency that wasn’t as best suited things could have gone really wrong.”
2. Contact the agency and attend an information session
Once you’ve narrowed down your choice, call or email your preferred agency and request additional information.
Many organizations host regular information sessions. Some agencies, Cayuga Centers included, offer you the chance to schedule this session on your own time. You can choose a time that works for you – even on a night or weekend.
During this first meeting, get to know the agency and ask any questions you have about the foster care process and how you and your foster child will be supported.
3. Complete your paperwork and homestudy
Now that you’re ready to move forward, a foster parent licensor will speak to you and your family about your motivation and ability to become a foster parent.
Background checks are completed on all adults living in the household. Depending on the state, this can extend to anyone who will have regular access to the child. These checks are thorough – fingerprinting, criminal background checks, and medical clearances – usually through a physical. You will also need to provide references.
Your home will be inspected to make sure it is safe for a child. Your licensor will know what to look for, but there are ways to prepare. We have also included a handy home study checklist.
There is a lot of paperwork involved in this portion of the process. Be proactive by filling out any applications or questionnaires and gathering relevant documents like marriage and birth certificates, school records and financial statements.
For an example of what documents you may need, check out the New York State Office of Children and Family Services website.
Remember, each piece of paperwork you provide shows your dedication to providing a safe and loving home for a child who needs one. If you’re missing a few items on the list, don’t be discouraged! Your licensor will support you while you gather everything you need.
4. Complete your training
For agencies offering an advanced level of foster care, keep in mind that any additional training required is a valuable investment in providing exceptional care.
Many agencies provide both online and in-person training, and the chance to reinforce your skills through annual recertifications. Topics covered include parenting, safety, first aid, and more to make sure that you have all of the tools you need for youth in foster care.
This journey is all about providing the best possible environment for the children that you will become responsible for.
5. Receive your foster care license
After your paperwork, home study, and training are completed, your licensor will gather all of your information and issue a report for your license. Once your license has been approved by the state, you can accept your first placement.
You can expect the entire process to take anywhere from 60 to 120 days depending on a variety of factors. Your county/state and completion of paperwork play a role in the timeline of the process. Once you’re certified, you are now ready to accept your first foster child into your home. Congratulations!
6. Your first placement is just around the corner
The most challenging parts of the process are behind you. Celebrate this win and the positive impact you’re about to make in a child’s life!
