Must be 21, can be single, married, divorced or widowed Must be financially stable Submit to background checks for all household members over 14 years of age Complete an application, home visits (and meet in home requirements), pre-service training and home study Provide references (both relative and non-relative) Have high school diploma or GED Be… Read more »

Attend an information meeting Select an agency Complete application packet and requirements listed by agency Attend training Home visits Home study/screening Complete additional requirements as determined by the children you will serve

The monthly reimbursement provided to foster families is a combination of federal, state, or county funds. It is for child care-related costs such as food, clothing, recreation, transportation, and housing cost. In extraordinary circumstances, special rates may be reimbursed to foster families who care for children with exceptional needs, as in the case of medical… Read more »

You will attend pre-service training with your agency.  Some call this PRIDE.  It is about 35 hours of training and will cover: Child Attachment Grief and Loss Discipline and Behavior Intervention Trauma Informed Care Sexual Safety Working as part of the child welfare system And more

A foster home screening (also known as a home study) is a written assessment of your family.  It will be used for CPS to learn more about your family and make the best child/family match. The interview will include all family members and will cover many topics including: Personal and family background Health of each… Read more »

Your child placing agency will discuss your preferences during the approval process. This will be a joint decision based on the strengths, resources and desires of your family.  Factors for the decision will include: lifestyle, home space, support system, parenting style and experience, and your desire.

There is no maximum age.

Many foster and adoptive families have biological children.

CPS does not charge an adoption fee.  You may incur minimal expenses related to getting your home ready.  Families are responsible for legal fees related to the adoption consummation, however if the child is eligible for subsidy, these may be covered.

Subsidy is a program designed to support families adopting children that meet the federal definition of special needs.  It is not intended to replace the adoptive families legal responsibility to meet the needs of the child.  Eligible children are: 6 years old or older 2 years old and a member of a racial or ethnic… Read more »