Foster parents come from all walks of life and they have backgrounds as diverse as the children they care for. All kinds of families can care for foster children. Some foster parents are married, some are in same sex couples, and some are single. Some foster parents own a home and some rent. Foster parents may already have children and some are grandparents. What these parents all have in common are their love for children, the ability to commit to meeting challenges, and a strong desire to make a difference in their foster children's lives.
Requirements for foster parents
- At least 21 years of age;
- Good physical and emotional health;
- Exhibit family stability and good communication skills;
- Sufficient income to support self and family;
- Meet State requirements for housing, safety, space and equipment;
- Open to learning new styles of parenting;
- A U.S. citizen or legal resident;
- Pass criminal backgroun check;
- Ability to accept and appreciate cultural differences
Benefits of being a foster parent and the support foster families receive
- Chance to make a difference in the life of a child;
- Opportunity to help families and communities;
- Medicaid insurance to cover the child;
- Financial reimbursement for child's expenses;
- Orientation and ongoing training;
- Monthly foster parent support groups.
Foster Care Process
The certification process is completed by Denver Human Services with each prospective home and includes:
- Fingerprinting to screen for criminal background and child abuse registry;
- Home study by a social worker;
- Safety inspection of the home;
- Three letters of recommendation;
- CPR and First Aid certification;
- Current medical physicals for each family member;
- CORE training - 27 hours of classroom training on the fundamentals of foster care;
- 20 hours of annual continuing education
Take a Stand for a Child in Need
Just the simple act of providing shelter, food, a stable life and loving support helps tremendously. You might even help a child regain trust and hope. And that’s definitely something to stand up for.
If you would like more information about becoming a foster parent, please call our Foster Care information line at 720-944-4000. You can also attend a Foster Care Information Meeting -- this calendar has the meeting dates for 2012.