Becoming a Foster Parent
Foster care provides children with a temporary home and family when their parents are unable to meet their needs and keep them safe. There are many reasons a child may be removed from his/her biological home. It could be due to physical, emotional or sexual abuse or due to neglect. Foster care provides these children with a stable, safe and nurturing environment while their parents work on improving their situations.
Foster care is designed to be a temporary solution to meet the children's needs until they can return home safely. A child may remain in foster care for a few days or many months. Whenever possible, children are returned to their parent(s). Foster parents are encouraged to work towards reuniting the child with his/her parents.
Before a child is placed in a particular home, the foster parent receives background information about the child, including any medical, physical and behavior concerns that exist, as well as any mental health issues. Based on the information provided, the foster parent can make an informed decision as to whether they think a particular child would be a good match for their family.
Basic Qualifications for Foster Parents
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Be 21 years of age or older
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Pass a criminal background, child protective services and caregiver check
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Possess sufficient verifiable sources of income
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Meet physical home environment requirements and have homeowner's/renter's liability insurance
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Have bedroom space for a foster child. A foster child cannot share a bedroom with an adult
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Participate in professional training provided during the licensing process. In addition, ongoing training each year is required
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Be willing and able to work with and respect the child's family
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Have love and patience to share
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Be invested in the future of our community's children
Type of Foster Homes
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Level 1: With relatives of children needing out-of-home care
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Level 2: Basic foster care for kids with minimal physical, behavioral and emotional needs
To find out more, see frequently asked questions, email fostercare@waukeshacounty.gov or call 262-548-7373.
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