Foster Families serve as a bridge between temporary and permanent family living.  By being a licensed Foster Family, you will have the opportunity to nurture a child through a difficult and hopefully transient time.  You will have the chance to be a stabilizing force in the lives of the children in your care.  Many people say they are concerned about the way children are being raised and/or cared for, yet most do not act on their concern.  As a Foster Family you will have the chance to make a big difference in the life of a child who might not other wise have the care they need.  Most would agree that something must be done about the tragedy of child abuse and neglect—as a Foster Family you will be taking part in finding solutions to this societal problem. 

Being a part of a Foster Family allows both parent and child the chance to change for the better.  All involved receive intangible benefits to the relationship.  Foster Families learn the importance of stability and unconditional care, love and concern.  It is through these relationships that we all learn that one small step can indeed make a big difference. 

Below is a concise list of steps in becoming a Foster Parent, for a more detailed description of of the listed steps click here .  For a pdf version click here (pdf application is required).

• Initial Intake and Inquiry
  
  
• Complete and Return Family Information Packet with All Forms
  
  
• At Home Family Consultation Meetings
  
  
• Pre-Service Training/Completion of STARS program
  
  
• Mutual Assessment and Making an Informed Decision
  
  
• Financial Worksheet
  
  
• Foster Family Licensing
  
  
• Child Placement

These standards exist to help ensure the well being of the children currently in our care. For a detailed listing of the most recently available standards click here (pdf application is required).