Frequently Asked Questions regarding PERMANENCY PLANNING RESORCES (foster care):

 

 

 

What is Permanency Planning Resource?

 

UJIMA’s name for Foster Parents is Permanency Planning Resource Families because we believe renders this service, not just the parents and we believe that the entire family in encouraging our families to be a resource for the children they care for.  That resource might develop into respite after return home or if return home is not possible, that resource might develop into an adoptive home.  Regardless, our families are a permanency resource for the children in their care.

 

 

What is foster care?

 

The Washington State Division of Licensed Resources is mandated by federal and state laws to protect children from abuse and neglect. Foster care is the temporary placement of children with families or individuals outside of their own homes into licensed homes due to neglect and/or abuse.

 

 

Who can become a foster parent?

 

Foster parents are individuals who enjoy children and are willing to open their homes and share their time, energy, and love with children who have suffered neglect or abuse. In Washington State you can be a foster parent if you:

·         Are 21 years or older, per WAC 388-73-031;

·         Have adequate space for placement of a child or children in your home;

·         Pass a health/safety inspection and a fire/safety inspection;

·         Have adequate income to meet the needs of present family members without Foster Care payments

·         Participate in required Orientation, Pre-Service, and In-Service training;

·         Pass a criminal history check and Child Protective Services check;

·         Have a current 1st Aid/CPR certification;

·         Take an HIV-AIDS Awareness class and

·         Renew foster parent license every three years, if the family wishes to continue to provide care

·         Pass current TB tests for all family members 18 years and older

 

 

Do foster parents receive financial assistance?

 

Foster parents will receive a set monthly reimbursement based on the child's age. These funds are for child-care related costs such as food, clothing, and housing. In addition, each child will have medical and dental coverage while in foster care. Special rates may be paid to foster families who care for children with exceptional needs such as medical or behavioral needs; additional training required.

 

 

Can foster parents work outside the home?

 

Working individuals can be licensed as foster parents.

Who are the children that come into foster care?

 

The children that are placed into the state foster care program may:

·         Have been neglected, abused, or abandoned;

·         Range from infancy through 18 years of age;

·         May have special physical, emotional or medical needs;

·         May be part of a sibling group;

·         Represent all cultural and economic groups; however, children of color are over-represented in the foster care system.

 

How long is a foster care placement?

 

A child may be placed in foster care for as short as an overnight stay or as long as it takes to achieve a permanent plan for the child. Reunification with the child's biological family is usually the first goal considered in permanency.

What can I expect as a foster parent?

 

You can expect many rewards such as:

·         The chance to help children feel good about themselves;

·         Challenging experience;

·         Chance to learn and use special knowledge and skills;

·         Make a difference in a child's life;

·         Satisfaction in doing a meaningful and exceptional job--protecting children from harm;

 

What are some of the myths to be dispelled?

 

There are many myths about what it takes to qualify to be a foster parent. The truth is:

·         You can be single or married

·         You don't have to own you own home

·         You don't have to make lots of money

·         There is financial and other assistance available for foster care