Calling all Foster PArents

[DisneyMommyMichelle]

Can someone explain to me how you can become a foster parent? my DH and i are really interested in this. Any and all information is welcome! thanks so much!

 

[DisneyDotty]

In Illinois we worked with an agency (Catholic Charities for us) who set us up with the classes required/did the home inspections/checked references/placed children and monitored their progress in our homes. Each state is different, but if you have a Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services, or Dept. of Children and Family Services near you, give 'em a call.
Good luck!

PS--I see you are in Illinois, too. I imagine you'll have somewhat the same experience in working with an agency out in Rockford.

 

[DisneyMommyMichelle]

DisneyDotty: thanks so much for this info! we are just so clueless about this process

 

[Nevergrow'nup]

We were a foster family for my 2 nieces for 9 months. DCYF placed them with us. Not to discourage you but know up front what is expected of you. Our family life was chaos. DCYF did not take into consideration my own children or our family's plans. We were told visitation was on this day from this time to this time. When I voiced concern over conflicting schedules, I was told basically too bad. You need to decide what age the children you will accept will be. If you are working with DCYF, these children sometimes need alot of attention and guidance. We thought that consistency and TLC would make changes and realized that sometimes what the children have gone thru and what they are pressured to do by DCYF will counteract any love given to them. I know of other families that foster parenting has worked great for but in this case, it didn't. The tragedy was they are family. A good case worker will make alot of difference. Best of luck.

 

[crazelion]

If be a foster parent please make sure that's what really won't to do. I had a foster child from h*ll and just send back into the system. I could not do nothing with the boy.

Here TN you have to be PATH training before they let in the foster care system. They give certain amount money each month for the child.

That is true they can be very controling if have take child to the see doctor, head doctor, and taking visit there parents up at DCS.

You lose some your freedom to my decisons in your family life.

 

[disney4us2002]

DMM, that is fantastic! I train and license foster and adoptive parents in Maryland and we are always in need of more families. The first step is to contact your state's licensing agency. I did a google search for Illinois foster parenting and came up with this site: http://www.state.il.us/dcfs/foster/index.shtml

Sure hope you find the answers you seek. Good luck and thank you!

 

[DisneyMommyMichelle]

Thank you so much for this information. we have the space and i have the time being a SAHM, and this is something we really want to do thanks again!