Did you know? There are over 400,000 children in the foster care system in the United States. There are fewer than 200,000 foster homes in America. The need for foster parents is real. Being a foster parent is so rewarding and is a wonderful opportunity to love like Jesus. Healing Homes is committed to provide caring and professional services to their foster parents, recognizing their unique needs and backgrounds, while advocating for the children who need the love and stability of a family during one of the most difficult times in their lives. We walk parents through the foster care certification process, advocate for matches between children and our foster homes, along with helping families navigate requirements from the state. In order to ensure that our foster children are being placed in safe and loving homes, there are certain requirements and qualifications for our foster parents.
Legal Requirements
One of the more basic requirements to become a foster parent is meeting the minimum age requirement, typically 21 years or older. It is also required that a foster parent be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
The safety and well-being of our foster children are of utmost importance! Potential foster parents must be able to pass a criminal background check and child abuse clearances for both state and federal governments. Background checks must also be conducted on all household members over the age of 18.
A licensed home study must also be completed and approved prior to moving forward in the foster care process. The home study will include trauma training, CPR/First Aid certification, in person interviews, and passing child abuse and criminal background checks. Other requirements will vary by your state of residence.
Health and Safety Standards
While our home study providers and foster care advocates will not perform a “white glove inspection” at every home visit, Nightlight expects that your home will be generally clean and uncluttered, with all systems in working order. Easy access to health resources such as hospitals, urgent care, and doctors’ offices is important. Adequate space and appropriate sleeping arrangements should be available for each child. Here at Nightlight, our hope is that our foster children will view their foster homes as a safe haven.
Financial Stability
Foster parents must be able to provide a financially stable home. This looks like having sufficient income to support an additional child without relying on subsidy.
Training and Education
We are focused on equipping our families with trauma training and guidance for their journey. We provide 24/7 crisis intervention services and service coordination by connecting our foster parents to local therapists, support groups, and other important resources. Our foster parents will receive thorough training on trauma-informed parenting and will be equipped with the tools and resources they need to love their foster children in the healthiest way possible. Nightlight foster families also have yearly continuing education requirements, depending on their state of residence.
Support System
Having a strong support network is crucial for foster parents. This can include family, friends, coworkers, church members, and other foster parents who can offer support and encouragement. Through Healing Homes, you will find opportunities to meet other foster parents in the area while developing additional support through foster care events and foster parent support groups.
It takes a village to raise a child, and we would love to be a part of your village.