“Every child deserves a champion — an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best they can possibly be.”
– Rita F. Pierson
The most important qualification for a foster parent is a loving and patient heart! But to ensure the safety of our foster children, Laraway has some simple requirements to ensure the home is appropriate.
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HOW LONG ARE CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE?
Circumstances vary, so it is hard to predict in all cases. Some children are in foster care for only a few days or weeks, while others may be adopted by their foster parents. A child’s time in foster care depends on what is best for them in the long run. On average, families may have a child from 6 months to 2 years or longer.
DO I NEED TO BE MARRIED TO BE A FOSTER PARENT?
No. Single persons and unmarried couples can also become approved as foster parents. However, if two adults present as a couple, both must go through the approval process.
WHAT MUST I PROVIDE FOR A FOSTER CHILD?
The things you must provide are food, clothing, and shelter. Most important of all are love and support. When one of our agency staff members talks with you, you will get more information regarding requirements. We will be happy to answer all of your questions.
WHAT KINDS OF PROBLEMS DO THE CHILDREN GENERALLY HAVE?
Children removed from their homes due to abuse, abandonment, or neglect have been traumatized. You will receive initial and ongoing training and support on working with the behaviors they exhibit due to this trauma.
WILL I RECEIVE FINANCIAL SUPPORT WHEN WORKING WITH A FOSTER CHILD?
Yes. Laraway provides a daily stipend for each child in care with your family. A child will also have state medical insurance covering medical, dental, and pharmaceutical needs.
WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT?
There is a growing need for foster homes for children and teens. When a family is in crisis, and children cannot remain with their caretaker, we need loving, stable foster families to step in and walk with a child through this challenging time. Like all children, these children need love, support, guidance, and structure in their lives. You have the opportunity to make a real difference in a child’s life at a time when they need it most!
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE TO GET APPROVED AS A FOSTER PARENT?
Our staff takes pride in being flexible and working closely with a family to become approved. The average time for a family to become fully approved is about 2-3 months.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Complete the online inquiry form and select “Therapeutic Foster Care” as your topic of interest. One of our staff will contact you shortly so we can answer all of your questions and schedule you for an information session.
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WAYS YOU CAN HELP...
Consider making a donation to our Youth Crisis Fund. The Crisis Fund allows us to address critical needs not covered by traditional funding.
Considering opening your home and your heart? Doing so could truly change the life of a child. Learn more about Foster and Respite Care.
Please consider donating one or more of the items on Laraway’s wish-list. New or gently used items to support our programs are accepted.
CAREERS THAT CHANGE LIVES
At Laraway, you are not just an employee, you are part of our community.