Fostering 101
What Does Love Look Like?
In the world of foster care, love looks like a dedicated family providing a home for a child in need. At Advantage Foster Family Agency, we recognize that families come in all shapes and sizes. Resource parents can be single or married, same-sex couples, grandparents, working parents or retirees. We work with individuals of all races, religious affiliations, sexual orientation and economic status. Love is at the heart of everything that we do.
Requirements
Pass criminal background check
Pass general physical exam
21 years or older
Complete a minimum of 12 hours of training
Complete CPR and First Aid training
Provide Two Family References
A safe and clean home environment / pass home inspection
Reliable source of income
Available space in your home
Possess responsible character traits including patience, maturity and the willingness to learn.
Steps
Schedule an in-home orientation
Complete application and additional required paperwork
Complete Live Scan
Complete 12 hours of online training
Pass home and safety inspection
Participate in Family Evaluation
Support for Families
Initial and ongoing training
Ongoing support from assigned social worker
On call social worker available 24/7
Respite care
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a "Resource Parent" and a “Foster Parent”?
A resource parent is one that has gone through all the steps to be a foster parent, but also has an approved adoption home study. The home study is a requirement, even if you do not plan to adopt.
How long does the Resource Parent certification process take?
The length of time varies depending on the individual’s motivation and availability. For most families, the process takes between three to five months.
How much does it cost to become a Resource Parent with Advantage?
There is no cost to become a resource parent. All associated costs are covered by the agency. There may be some home repairs and/or items required to be approved. The agency will try to help with these costs on a case-by-case basis.
How many training hours are required and when are they offered?
To become a resource parent with Advantage, 18 hours of training is required. This includes orientation, CPR/First Aid and parenting classes. Many of the trainings are held in-home, around your busy schedule. This is done so that we can get a feel for your home, meet your children, and get a better sense of the type of child that would be a match for your family. Some training classes are available online, and can be completed at your convenience.
Once I am a Resource Parent, how much support and training do I receive?
A social worker is assigned to your home upon placement. The social worker visits the child weekly and monitors the placement. Staff members are on call 24/7 to answer phone calls, provide support, and deal with crisis situations. Advantage also has a mentoring program where you will be connected with a seasoned resource parent to answer questions and get additional support. Annual training for resource parents is 8 hours a year, and you are encouraged to take additional training if you so desire.
Can I become a Resource Parent and still maintain a full time job?
Yes, many resource parents work outside the home. Childcare arrangements will have to be made and there are programs available to help with childcare costs.
Do I need to own my own home?
No, home ownership is not a requirement. Resource parents can rent a home or apartment, as long as there is adequate space for the children. In addition, if you are a renter, renter’s insurance is required.
How many children can I take in and can they share a room with my child?
The number of children you will be approved to take depends on several factors including the size of the home and the number of bedrooms. The standard is two children per bedroom, but up to four children can share a room in order to accommodate a large sibling set. Foster and biological children can share a room, but guidelines need to be followed.
Do I have a say in the type and age of the children I take? Will I get to meet them before placement?
Yes, we want your placements to be successful! A profile of potential placements will be developed with the help of the agency staff. This includes sex, age, behaviors, medical needs, etc. You will be contacted when a child is referred to the agency that is a match for your home. Resource parents are encouraged to do pre-placement visits with all children (except newborns). Resource parents have the final say on accepting a placement and there is never any pressure to do so.
Is there financial assistance to help pay for the child’s care?
Resource parents will receive a monthly payment to help offset expenses. This includes funds for supervision, food, clothing, toys and more. The monthly payment depends on the needs of the child. Every child gets free medical and dental care.
How long will a child stay in my home?
The typical length of stay is between 6 and 18 months, although this can vary greatly. This is the amount of time a biological parent is given to reunify with their child. After 18 months, a permanent plan is developed which could include reunification, long-term foster care or adoption.