You don't have to be a
superhero
to be a foster parent
So many people think it takes someone special to foster. But foster parents will be the first to tell you that they are NOT super. They simply chose to say “yes.”

WHAT YOU DON'T NEED TO FOSTER
Unmasked: The Real Foster Parents
Your First Step
What if you’re exactly what a child needs? It only takes an hour to find out. Learn how kids come into foster care and what it looks like to care for them. You can ask any questions you have, and there's no pressure to make a commitment. What do you have to lose?

Host a foster care awareness sunday

Your Questions Answered

What is the goal of foster care?
The goal of foster care is reunification with their birth family whenever it’s a safe and viable option. Growing up surrounded by their birth family minimizes the child’s questions about their identity and prevents further trauma caused by complete separation from their first family.
When reunification is not possible, the second-best outcome for a child is adoption or permanent guardianship by another family member, family friend or foster/adoptive family.

What are the requirements for becoming a foster parent?
Foster parents must be at least 18 years old, pass background and reference checks, complete training, and complete the home study process. Foster parents must be able to use sound judgment like a prudent parent and must demonstrate a responsible, stable, and emotionally mature lifestyle.
You can be single, married or have a domestic partner. If two adults are presenting as a couple, then both must go through the approval process.
You can own or rent a home, condo, or apartment of any size, but you must provide a safe living environment, which includes adequate room for a child.
You can work inside or outside the home. Couples with both partners working outside the home are also eligible to be foster parents.
You must have sufficient income to support your current family.
You must be able to physically care for a child or youth.
You must pass child abuse and criminal background checks required by state and federal laws.
You must be able to work with the department and caseworkers and be willing to complete ongoing training.

How long do children typically stay in foster care?
The median time spent in foster care in Montana is 15.8 months. However, how long the child remains in care depends on their case and whether they can safely return to their birth parents or primary caregiver.
When reuniting them is not in a child's best interest, they may become eligible for adoption.

What is the licensing process like?
1. Fill out a resource parent application (one per prospective parent) and return it to your local Department of Health and Human Services office.
2. Complete the Release of Information form and a fingerprint card for the Department of Motor Vehicles, Child Protective Service (CPS) and criminal background checks.
3. Complete a Personal Statement of Health for yourself and each member of your household.
4. Complete foster parent training (online).
5. Complete a home safety and fire assessment.
6. Submit to a home/family assessment interview by a Resource Family Specialist.

Will I have support?
Absolutely. Child Bridge is here to support you every step of the way. Our Advocates will walk with you through the licensing process and answer any questions you have. Your regional Parent Coach will then provide support, community connection, coaching and resources throughout the entirety of your foster/adoptive journey.

What if I’ve never been a parent before?
You do not need any parenting experience to be a foster parent. Our team at Child Bridge and your local/statewide community of foster/adoptive parents will surround you with the support, training, coaching and encouragement you need to succeed no matter your experience level.

How will fostering affect my own kids?
Many families find that their biological children enjoy having foster siblings. Kids often benefit from the fostering experience by learning empathy, resilience and the value of family. The idea that fostering will harm one's biological children is a valid concern, but largely unfounded.
Fostering is a lifestyle decision that will impact the whole family. Social workers recommend that both partners and children be a part of the fostering discussion and agreement. When everyone in the family knows what fostering involves, it's more likely to be a positive experience for all.