How to Become a Foster Parent in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts Department of Children and Families strives to protect and reinforce the family structure. The department's first priority is to keep families together. Massachusetts foster parents must understand the importance of a child̵7;s natural family and be willing to temporarily assume the role of parent until the child is reunited with the natural parents.

Instructions

    • 1

      Contact the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families to ask any questions you have regarding becoming a foster parent. If you are still interested, complete the Registration of Interest form and return it to Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

    • 2

      Complete information for a background check for anyone in your home over the age of 14. All members must pass the background check to protect the safety of children placed in your home.

    • 3

      Prepare for your first home visit. A state social worker completes an inspection to verify that your home meets the Physical Standards Check. During this visit, the social worker will check smoke detectors, living and sleeping spaces and the safety and security of your home. If your home does not pass inspection, you are given a period of time to bring your home into compliance.

    • 4

      Fill out the foster care application completely and honestly. Return the form to the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

    • 5

      Attend the Massachusetts Approach to Partnership in Parenting (MAPP) program. The sessions are three to four hours a week and span several weeks. The program will provide information about the advantages and disadvantages of foster parenting.

    • 6

      Prepare for the second home visit. A MAPP social worker will meet with everyone in the household. You must provide references during this visit. After the visit and reference checks, the social worker will prepare a Home Study document specifying your family̵7;s strengths, challenges and limitations. After a supervisor reviews the document and approves your family, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families will license your home.

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