How to Become a Foster Parent in Ohio

According to Adopt Us Kids, as of 2010, there are approximately 14,000 children in Ohio looking for foster parents. Many of these children are African American, of school age or part of a sibling group hoping to be placed together. Ohio has strict guidelines in place, implemented by the Department of Job and Family Services, to ensure that these children are placed with the most suitable families.

Instructions

    • 1

      Meet the minimum state requirements. You must be at least 21 years old, financially secure, single or legally married, and free from any medical condition which could impair your ability to look after a child. In addition, there must be at least one household resident who can speak, read and write English.

    • 2

      Contact the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Register your interest in becoming a foster parent and, if necessary, ask any questions about the application process. See Resource 1 for contact details.

    • 3

      Complete the initial foster-care training. This is a 36-hour course of educational sessions designed to give a deeper understanding of foster parenting and the application process. If you are married or have a partner, that person will also need to attend the sessions.

    • 4

      Complete a home assessment. A social worker will visit your home and assess your paretning skills and backghround. This will give the state a better idea of the kind of child you will be best suited to foster.

    • 5

      Complete all necessary checks. These include a medical examination, a fire safety inspection and a criminal background check. Character references will also be taken from your friends and family.

    • 6

      Receive your fostering license. You will then be qualified to begin fostering children in the state of Ohio.

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