How to Become a Foster Parent in New York

There are thousands of children in New York who need foster care, ranging in age from babies to teenagers, and many may be struggling with physical, emotional or mental disabilities. Through the fostering program, you can provide a temporary home for a child while she is waiting for a permanent placement or to return to her parents.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine whether you meet the eligibility requirements to become a foster parent in New York. The New York State Office of Children and Family Services monitors the fostering process. In order to foster a child, you need to be a stable adult older than 21 years of age. You must be in good health and have a good character.

    • 2

      Attend a foster parent orientation. You must attend an orientation to make sure that you meet all of the requirements and learn more about the program. At the orientation, you'll be able to ask any questions that you have about fostering a child. You'll also receive an application packet.

    • 3

      Submit your foster parenting application. Fill out the application and send it to the Office of Children and Family Services. New York State requires you to submit the names of three people who will confirm by signed statement that you have a good moral character.

    • 4

      Schedule a home study. A social worker will visit your house to determine whether you will make a good foster parent. She'll look for general clealiness and order in the home. You should also have a space where your foster child can sleep--either his own room or a room that he shares with other same-sex children.

    • 5

      Have an interview. At the home study, the social worker will also interview you. In the interview, the worker will ask you about your experience in raising children, approach to discipline and other things that relate to being a foster parent.

    • 6

      Pass the background check. New York State wants its foster parents to be free of a criminal past to help provide a safe environment for the foster children. You'll have to submit to a background check to verify this.

    • 7

      Complete the training process. You'll have to go through New York's 8-to-10-week training program for foster parents. These classes are held at night and on weekends, so you can fit them into your schedule even if you work.

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