Advocate For Children In The Foster Care System: What To Know About Becoming A Foster Parent

Children without parents available to provide emotional and financial support can benefit tremendously from living with a foster care parent. Whether you already have children or are a single person interested in fostering kids who need a safe, comforting place to stay for an extended period, making such a decision can change the lives of many children.

Reasons to Become a Foster Parent

The foster care system aims to help the children be reunified with their family members, some of whom might not have their lives together at the moment. For example, a biological parent may be unable to provide for their child and have a list of requirements they need to meet before getting their little one back, such as obtaining employment and housing. In the meantime, the child needs to receive the care they deserve, and that's where foster parents come in to help.

When you become a foster parent, you are:

• Giving a child an opportunity to receive the best care in a loving and safe living environment
• Offering the support foster children need when navigating such a difficult time in their lives
• Building a solid bond with children who can discover what it feels like to be loved and cared for correctly
• Helping a child grow and thrive despite the circumstances surrounding the situation

Your willingness to bring a non-biological child into your home to receive care for weeks, months, or even years will benefit the child.

What to Know Before Becoming a Foster Parent

To become a foster parent, you must complete an application, receive training to understand the foster care system even better, and earn a license that legally enables you to foster children of different ages. Someone from the foster care agency will visit your home to ensure you have the space and safe living conditions children need before matching you with a child. 

Every fostering situation is different, with some children staying in the home for a short period and others remaining in foster care for years. While some foster care parents go on to adopt the children in their care, keep in mind that the end goal is to get the child back to their family.

Fostering children will make a huge difference in their lives, helping them grow and thrive in a safe, loving environment. If you believe you can become a foster care parent, connect with a foster care agency today to complete your application.