Qualifications for Foster Parents

There are a number of qualifications that potential foster parents in Pennsylvania must meet in order to be approved to care for children in the foster care system. Family Care Children & Youth (FCCY) is a local Pennsylvania foster care and adoption agency that has years of experience helping train people to be foster parents and helping with adoption services. Learn more about the qualifications to be a foster parent here in Pennsylvania, and contact us to get started today!

foster family happy walking

General Qualifications to Be a Foster Parent in Pennsylvania

Some of the qualifications to be a foster parent in Pennsylvania are general, such as being at least 21 years of age and having a clean criminal background check. Others are specific to the type of foster care placement being sought. For example, those interested in becoming a therapeutic foster parent must complete additional training and be able to provide a safe and nurturing home environment for children with special needs. Other foster parent requirements in Pennsylvania include:

  • Complete required foster parent training
  • Be able to provide adequate housing for the foster child
  • Have a stable income
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Be able to meet the specific needs of the foster child

gavel and book, law

How Does Foster Care Work in Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) is responsible for licensing foster homes in the state. Potential foster parents must complete an application and home study process in order to be approved. The home study includes an assessment of the potential foster parent’s criminal background, child abuse clearances, physical home environment, and financial stability, among other things. Those interested in becoming a foster parent in Pennsylvania can find more information on the DHS website or by contacting our local children and youth agency.

woman teaching parents

What Is the Training Required to Be a Foster Care Parent?

Training to be a foster care parent is more about preparation for the challenges and about understanding the inner workings of the foster care system. Classroom training typically covers topics such as child development, parenting skills, and the system. Home study typically includes reading materials and activities that help potential foster parents learn more about what it takes to care for a foster child.

foster family with dog

Why Choose FCCY In Pennsylvania for Foster Care?

Our primary role as a Pennsylvania non-profit foster care agency is to equip people with the skills they need to be a foster parent and then place children in these loving, safe homes. We offer you the support you need to offer these children the very best care. Our door is always open to you to answer your foster care system questions. Call today!

PARTNER WITH FAMILY CARE CHILDREN & YOUTH TODAY

Fostering a child will be one of the best things you ever do. When you give a child a home that does not have a home, you are changing a life. There are few other jobs or careers that can boast the same thing. Not only are you changing that child’s life, but you will also be changing yours. Don’t expect to be the same person. You’ll learn and grow almost as much as your child does. You’ll be surprised and amazed at what a difference a foster care parent can make.

If you’re ready to make a difference in a child’s life, contact our FCCY in Pennsylvania today. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have and get you started on the path to becoming a foster parent. Call today!

 

Give Us a Call Today!

Emergency Foster Care Lawrence County, PA

With experienced, compassionate and dedicated professionals, we'll work with you in order to find the best solutions. Whether you know a child in need of emergency services, or you are looking to provide a home for those in need, call us today!

Foster Parent Lawrence County, PA

The mission of Family Care for Children & Youth, Inc. is to be the best social service agency committed to providing an excellent standard of care and culturally competent services while communicating compassion, empathy, and hope for the future.

OUR HAPPY FAMILIES SAY IT ALL

Check out our success stories below

"THEY CARE ABOUT THE CHILDREN AND ARE VERY THOROUGH"

My husband and I always tell people that talk to us about wanting to foster or adopt about our agency. We enjoy working with this agency because the staff not only care about the careful placement of a child but also about us as a family. Our agency is available and quick to respond to us whether we have an emergency or just a question. They care about the children and are very thorough to ensure the children and the foster family are getting what they need.

Alice Cedrone

"WE ENJOY GIVING BACK"

Fostering is very positive experience not only for ourselves but also for the child’s well-being. We enjoy giving back. Providing a loving, nurturing home to a child gives the child an opportunity to have a normal childhood as possible.
Millie Flores

"WE WOULD RECOMMEND FCCY"

Picking FCCY to work with has been the best thing my husband and I could have done. We have had only positive experiences with this agency. The case managers are so good and give you total support as a foster parent. We would recommend FCCY to others looking into foster care.

P. Kyler