The best foster parents are patient, warm-hearted people who want to help children whose families are in crisis. Legally, foster parents must meet the following requirements:
* Individuals and couples over age 18 of all races, ethnic backgrounds and religions
* Married or single
* A house or apartment that meets safety requirements
* Adequate sleeping space for each child
* Passing a criminal background check and a check of the national Child Abuse Central Index, which records substantiated and inconclusive allegations of child abuse
* Willingness to accept a foster child as a part of the family
* Willingness to partner with the social worker, the birth family, the community and others who care about the child
What Sacramento County offers
Resources for Sacramento County licensed foster parents/resource families include:
* Access to community resources
* Support groups
* PRIDE training (Spanish and English)
* Services of a foster parent liaison
* Foster parent focus groups and mentorship program
* Team Decision Making
* Public Health nursing support
* Support from local Foster Parent Associations
* No fees for services, including first aid/CPR instruction
* Professional & culturally competent social workers
* Bilingual (English/Spanish) services
If you’re interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent call 916-875-5543 (875-5KID).