Foster Care
Sometimes families face such issues as illness, drug and alcohol addiction, or homelessness, which negatively impact the children. In these cases, when parents and/or relatives are unable to care for them, children are provided a temporary living arrangement in a foster home. These arrangements are only possible when the Department of Social Services has taken custody of a child.
Foster parents are needed to provide a loving, structured environment for children during this difficult time. The length of stay in foster care varies from a few days to months to even years.
We also provide Therapeutic Foster Care. Our Therapeutic Foster Care Program serves children who need out-of-home placement by providing day-to-day services through licensed, therapeutic foster parents.
Stipends are given to parents depending on the age of the child to help cover the cost of food, clothes, and other necessities. The state pays for medical expenses of children placed in foster care.
What does it take to be a Foster Parent?
*Applicants must be at least 21 years of age.
* Married couples, or people in a relationship, need to have a stable relationship for at least one year. Both must come through class and both have to get licensed.
*Be able to show work stability and must be employed at current job for at least 6 months.
*Must have resided in your current home for at least 6 months unless it is an unusual or special circumstance.
* Must have a valid Driver's License and your own vehicle.
* Must have a high school diploma or GED or must be able to demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing.
* Must be able to pass a criminal history check and federal background check (fingerprints).
* Must have a physical done by a medical doctor on a form provided by the state- this includes all household members, including minor children.
* Your residence must pass a fire inspection.
* Must have adequate living space to accommodate a foster child(ren).
*Must be able to demonstrate adequate income to meet the needs of your family.
* Anyone in the household that is 21 years old or older will need to attend classes if they are going to assist in any way with the care of the child(ren). In-person and online foster care classes available.
* Anyone in the household that is 18 years old or older will need to submit fingerprints and have a local criminal check conducted as well as other paperwork.
* Must complete 40 hours of training and complete homework and other necessary paperwork.
* Must have the ability to work as a team, and need to have determination, patience and humor.
* Most importantly, must have love for children and room in your heart!
To learn more about becoming a foster parent or a therapeutic foster parent,
call 910-646-3083.
Interested in becoming a BGHNC foster parent? Complete the Initial Inquiry below. Questions? Email Chief of Community-Based Services Donna Yalch.
