Frequently
Asked Questions
FAQ
– Frequently Asked Questions about
Becoming
a Foster Parent
Why
are children in care?
Children
enter foster care because their parents are unable to care for them
for a variety of reasons. They range in age from newborn to 18.
How
long will a foster child be in my home?
There is no set
length of time for a foster placement. It depends on the
circumstances of the child and his/her birth family. When a child is
placed in your home, you will be given an estimate of how long the
child is expected to stay. Some children stay in foster care
for a day or two. Others may stay in care for a couple of years.
Do
I have a choice about which child is placed in my home?
Yes.
Foster parents can specify the race, age, gender and number of
children they wish to care for.
Is
there a cost to become a foster parent?
There are no fees
associated with becoming approved foster or adoptive parents. The
home study and required training are provided free of charge.
Will
I receive financial assistance for the children in my care?
Yes.
You will receive a payment designed to cover expenses such a board,
food, clothing, recreation, etc. The basic payment rates (2007) are
$757.67 per month for children under 12 and $866.11 for children 12
and over. Foster parents may be assessed to receive additional funds
based on their skill level and experience.
Do
I have to own my home?
No. Foster and adoptive parents may
own, rent, or be in the process of buying their home or condo.
Families who rent must have their landlord’s permission to become
foster parents. You must also carry renter or homeowner
insurance.
I'm
single. Can I still be a foster parent?
Yes. Foster
parents can be single, in a partnership, or married.
Can
I work outside of the home?
Foster parents can work
outside of the home. However, in most cases, having one parent at
home, or having a flexible or part-time position often works best for
the children.
What
are the Responsibilities of a Foster Parent?
-
Provide
a safe home and appropriate meals, clothing and accommodation (each
child must have their own bed).
-
Provide
a warm, nurturing environment, guidance and supervision that respond
to the child’s individual needs and cultural heritage.
-
Be
a team player - work cooperatively with social workers and other
professionals for the best interests of the child.
-
Ensure
contact between the child and their family and cultural community
when appropriate.
-
Agree
to the MCFD discipline policy. No physical discipline is allowed,
ever, for any reason, in your home.
-
If
anyone in your home smokes, it is preferred that they smoke outside.
What
is the biggest need in this area?
We currently have a need
for all homes, especially for babies, children over ten, children
that are part of a sibling group and children with exceptional
emotional or behavioural needs. We also need homes of aboriginal
heritage and homes to provide relief.
What
is the “Safe Babies” program?
Many infants, who have
been exposed pre-natally to drugs or alcohol and are born addicted,
require specialized care. We offer this specialized training.
For
more information visit www.fosterbc.ca
BCFFPA
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