Frequently Asked Questions about foster care

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 Circumstances vary so it is hard to predict in all cases. Some children are in foster care for only a few days or weeks while others may end up being adopted by their foster parents. The length of time a child spends in foster care depends on what is best for them in the long run.  

 No. Single persons and unmarried couples can also become approved as foster parents. However, if two adults are presenting as a couple, then both must go through the approval process. 

 The things you must provide are food, clothing, shelter, and most important of all, love, and support. When one of our agency staff members talks with you, you will get more information regarding requirements. We will be happy to answer all your questions. 

 Yes! A case manager will work with you from the time a child comes to your home. The case manager will have monthly contact with you and the child. You can also ask your foster care coordinator any questions you may have. Jackson County DHS also has a monthly foster care support group on the first Thursday of every month. You can attend this support group and hear from other foster parents.  

 Yes. Jackson County DHHS provides a stipend for each child in care, and you receive this stipend monthly. A child will also come with their state medical insurance which will cover medical, dental, and pharmaceutical needs. 

 There is a growing need for foster homes for children and teens, and a particular need to keep siblings together. When a family is in crisis and children are unable to remain with their caretaker, we need loving, stable foster families to step in and walk with a child through this challenging time. These children, like all children, need love, support, guidance, and structure in their lives. You can make a real difference in a child's life at a time when they need it most! 

 Our staff take pride in being flexible and working closely with a family to become approved. The average amount of time it takes for a family to become fully approved is about 2-3 months.  

 Contact your county's foster care coordinator and ask about the application. Once the application and background checks are turned in to the Foster Care Coordinator, they will be in contact with you to set up your first home visit. 

 The primary goal of foster care is to support children and their families so that they can reunify and with the appropriate support most children and families do! Placement in foster care is meant to be temporary and gives families time to make necessary changes so the child can safely live in their home and community. It is only when all efforts to reunify families safely have been exhausted - including extensive engagement with relatives and other like-kin to the child and family - that other permanency options are explored, which may include guardianship or adoption. 

To become a foster parent, you must be 21 years of age or older.

 No. Many foster parents do not have children.