Become an Adoptive or Foster Parent

Attend an orientation session
Complete and return an application
Submit to a criminal background check and fingerprinting
Allow home visits and personal interviews
Provide reference checks
Pass a physical examination
Pass home safety and cleanliness inspections
Complete the Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (MAPP) Training (36 hours for foster parents and 30 hours for adoptive parents)
Work with staff to complete the licensure process

Criteria to become a foster or adoptive parent:

Must be at least 21 years of age
Home must be inspected by the fire department
Each family member must have a physical exam and a tuberculosis test
Must have adequate bedroom space per child
Must be willing to provide care for children of all ages based on departmental needs (foster care only)
You must have identifi ed support services to assist with emergencies that occur with the children placed in your home, e.g., picking up a sick child from school or day care during business hours
You must be willing to secure your swimming pool or trampoline
Must have a land-line telephone
Must permit a home consultation with a social worker
Must undergo a criminal record check and be fi ngerprinted
Must provide copies of marriage certifi cate if married, divorce decrees or death certifi cate for former spouse if previously married
Must have sufficient income to meet your needs
Cannot be receiving government public assistance, e.g., food stamps, public housing, and TANF
Capacity guidelines for YFS:
- No more than 2 children under the age of 2
- No more than 3 children under the age of 5
- No more than 5 children under the age of 12
You must be aware that any person with an extensive criminal history, including crimes against children, drugs, and any felony, can be screened out by the agency
If you are a couple, both parties have to meet all criteria and complete the required training
You must be employed, unless you receive retirement benefits or disability

Guardians or foster or adoptive parents DO NOT have to:

What assistance do foster or adoptive parents receive?

Foster and adoptive parents receive financial and adoption assistance to provide for the well-being and care of the child. A monthly stipend (at least $450 per month) is provided according to the age and needs of a child. The stipend received by a foster and adoptive parent is non-taxable and cannot be recorded as income
Vendor payments are made directly to providers of preapproved medical services and psychological or remedial services for conditions due to the child's heredity or for pre-existing conditions
Non-recurring Expenses - clothes, cribs, car seats, supplies the kids need
Medicaid (child only)

To request more information, fill out the interest form and an agency representative will contact you.

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