Become a Foster Parent
The DC foster care system is in great need of licensed foster parents who can provide guidance, love, stability and educational/therapeutic support. The system is in particular need of parents who will care for a teenager or a teen mom.
SUPPORTS FOR BCC’S FOSTER PARENTS
- Education specialist to help with the educational needs of the children.
- Assigned social worker.
- 20 hours of in-service training annually.
- At least one monthly home visit to help avoid placement disruptions.
- A foster parent support group offered through the South Washington West of the River Collaborative (www.swwr.org).
- A buddy system to acclimate new foster parents to the agency and fostering.
- A foster parent manual.
- A foster parent appreciation luncheon and Christmas party.
REQUIRMENTS FOR FOSTER PARENTS
- At least 25 years old.
- Reside in DC or Maryland or within 25 miles of the District line.
- Self-supported financially.
- File an application and attend an in-office orientation.
- Complete 15 hours of pre-service PRIDE training.
- Complete CPR/first aid training.
- Submit to the home study process, including home interviews and submission of background clearances.
- Provide a driving record from the DMV.
- Have a home inspection done by the county fire department.
- Be willing to transport children to all appointments during traditional business hours.
- Able to work toward a child’s reunification with his or her birth family.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- We do not license day care providers.
- Children cannot share bedrooms with adults.
- Bunk beds are not permitted.
- Children cannot sleep in the basement.
- Firearms in the home are not permitted.
BECOME A RESPITE FOSTER PARENT
If you cannot commit to becoming a full-time foster parent, you can care for children as a respite foster parent on the weekends or for short time periods for ongoing foster parents. You must become licensed to do so.
RESOURCES
