Four Steps to Becoming a Foster Parent
Pre-Service Training
- 24 hours of training, divided into 12, two-hour sessions.
Course Descriptions - Courses are offered seven times per year.
- Different times and locations are available around the county.
- All spouses and live-in partners must attend training.
- Children are not allowed.
- Training is good for 12 months.
- Completing training does not certify for foster care or adoption.
Application Submission
- Applications are given during preservice, after 3 self directed trainings are completed.
- You are encouraged to complete and return the application while attending pre-service.
- When you submit your application and paperwork, one of our support staff will conduct a short interview, notarize your application and take fingerprints for your background check.
- All household members over the age of 18 must have proper ID and be fingerprinted.
The Home Study
- Your home study will begin after you submit your application.
- The study can take four to six months.
- A home study social service worker will interview you several times, and visit your house on multiple occasions.
- Your home must meet safety site regulations and pass a fire inspection.
- You must submit several types of documentation, including health records, income verification, and more as required by the Ohio Administrative Code.
Placement Expectations
- The amount of time between approval and your first placement will vary.
- When considering a foster placement, we look at the factors you identified: the number of children, sex, age, and characteristics.
Request Information About a Child
If you are a licensed Foster Caregiver or approved Adoptive Family requesting information about a specific child, submit an inquiry and we’ll follow up with you.
If you are not a licensed Foster Caregiver or approved Adoptive Family please submit this interest form and we’ll get back to you.