Frequently Asked Questions
Foster care is a difficult and complex topic, with a lot of questions.
We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about foster care, so that you can better understand it and start to make decisions that are right for you.
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What qualifications do I need to meet?
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have sufficient income to meet their own basic needs, and be in good physical, emotional and mental health. A Foster/Adoptive parent can be single, married, divorced, or widowed.
Can I choose what age(s), gender(s), race(s), and number of kids I feel comfortable caring for?
Yes. All placements must be approved by the foster family. Additionally, foster parents have the opportunity to voice their preferences during the home study process, though we encourage families not to set unnecessarily narrow parameters.
What if I want to adopt?
All families certified by the LA Department of Children and Family Services have dual certification that allows them to foster and/or adopt. Foster parents must understand that the first goal of foster care is typically to reunite children with their biological family members. Foster parents should support efforts for reunification. For about 20% of children in foster care in Louisiana, reunification is impossible and they become eligible for adoption
What does it cost?
Foster care is designed to come at no financial expense to foster families. Every month, families receive a stipend to help offset expenses incurred in caring for a child (food, clothing, toiletries, etc). In addition, all children in foster care are on Medicaid. Foster families are not responsible for medical, dental, or vision expenses.
How long does the process take?
On average, 10 month from starting the process to having children placed in home.
Do I have to be married?
No, you do not have to be married or in a relationship to foster. Every adult in the home is part of the home study, regardless if it’s one or more.
Is Fostering inclusive?
Yes, fostering is inclusive. There is a greater need for homes of all backgrounds.
Foster Stories
These are the stories of some of the children who’ve been helped by our foster care programs. We hope they inspire you to make a difference in the lives of children today!
