Become a Foster Parent

Do you have room in your heart and your Home?

Share Your love with a child in your community who needs a family.

What is Foster Care?

Foster Care is temporary care for children who are unable to live with their birth families.

Who are the children in care?

• Children in foster care represent all ethnic groups and may be infants through teenagers
• Some children may have handicapping conditions, behavioral challenges, and need special care
• When brothers and sisters come into care, we want to place them together. Teenage mothers also need homes for themselves and their children
• Children in foster care, like all children, need love, affection, and guidance

Who is a foster parent?

A foster parent is someone who can provide temporary care and love for children who are unable to live with their birth families. A foster parent should be someone who……

• Wants to make a difference in a child's life
• Is flexible and capable of handling stressful situations
• Can be working or stay-at-home parent
• Can work as am member of a team with families, social workers and other professionals
• May become an adoptive parent

Who can become a foster parent?

You can apply to become a foster parent if you……

• Are at least 21 years old
• Are married, single, or living with a partner
• Have sufficient income to meet your own family's needs
• Are in good health
• Can make room in your home and heart for children who need safe, temporary care

How can I become a foster parent?

• Attend an orientation session
• Complete an application
• Provide personal references and current medical records
• Attend our pre-certification training classes
• Participate in a home study

How will we help you?

• Provide ongoing training
• Provide 24-hour emergency services
• Arrange for special services for the child in care
• Provide financial and medical support to meet the needs of the child
• Foster Parent Support Group

What should I do now?

Call for more information:

                 Onondaga County

                 Department of Social Services

                 Homefinding Unit

                 (315) 435-3827

Nicholas J. Pirro

Onondaga County Executive

www.ongov.net