Who can be a foster parent?

Those families in Butte, Shasta, and Tehama counties that are willing to be responsible for the care of a foster child, willing to become part of our team and able to meet Community Care Licensing requirements.

How hard is being a foster parent?

It is a difficult and complex task. It involves not only the child but also being involved with us, birth parents, your family, the community and the courts regarding the care of the child.

Will fostering make significant changes in my life?

Yes. You will be expected to provide physical and emotional care; to develop awareness and sensitivity to a variety of children; to be flexible and patient in allowing the children to grow; to work cooperatively with the agency and other case related individuals.

Will I have to directly communicate with birth parents?

Yes, a birth parent remains a part of a child’s life no matter what happened. We’re not here to judge parents. You will be expected to accept the birth parents, understand their behavior, and be sensitive to the children’s feelings for and attachments to their birth parents.

What are other common difficulties?

“Co-parenting” or parenting as part of a team is very different than raising a child on your own and it takes a special commitment to cooperate with others.

What can I do to make the job of foster parenting easier?

You can remain open and receptive to new ideas. The social work staff is a good resource for you.

How do I quit if I find I don’t like it?

Taking a child into your home is a big responsibility. If you begin to feel overwhelmed by the experience of fostering, or feel it’s not right for you, talk to us. If you decide to quit foster care, give us some time to prepare the child for a move.

If I take a child into my home, how long will he/she stay with me?

The goal for all of the children in our care is “permanency”, and if an opportunity arises with a natural parent, a relative, or an adoptive home, then the child will leave your care and be placed permanently elsewhere.

If I have a sexually abused child placed in my home, should I be concerned about my own children?

Yes. Work closely with your Social Worker so you can better understand the patterns of behavior you are most likely to see.

Where can I find Youth and Family’s strategic plan?

You can find a copy of our strategic plan at either our Redding or Chico office.