Foster Parenting: Qualifications and Steps

• At least 21 years of age
• Single, married, divorced, or widowed
• Financially stable (able to meet own family’s needs)
• Good physical, emotional and mental health
• Adequate space in home for additional child
• Pass state and federal criminal clearances
• Attend 21 hours of pre-service training
• Participate in home study process

Steps to Certification

1. Attend an orientation meeting to learn more about the certification process.
2. Complete pre-service training. (8 sessions)
3. Submit application for certification. (Form will be handed out at first pre-service training session)
4. Come to office for fingerprinting of all adult members of household.
5. Provide documentation from a physician that all members of household are free of communicable disease. (Form will be handed out at first pre-service training session)
6. Participate in the home study process. There will be up to 3 visits to your home by an agency worker-one of which will include a safety inspection of your home.
7. Provide at least 5 references.
8. Certification process is complete!