*
At least 21 years of age
* Have a source of
income (sources can include wages, pension, or social security)
* Have
adequate housing, and meet all housing health and safety standards
* Can work as part of a team with the Office of Children
& Family Services, other community service providers, and the childs' birth parents
*
Are willing to work to restore a family and make a difference in the life of a
child
* Are willing to make a commitment to the child in your care
Each year, thousands of children in New York need foster care placement.
These children come to the foster care system because their parents are unable
to give them the protection, the guidance. and the help they need.
Children
are placed in foster care for a variety of reasons. Some are victims of physical,
sexual or emotional abuse and/or neglect. Their parents may be overwhelmed by
their own problems, and unable to address the needs of their children. Others
may be experiencing difficulty in school or in getting along with peers, siblings,
or in the community.
Being a parent is one of the hardest jobs
anyone can do. Being a foster parent is a challenge, but it is also rewarding.
Like all children, foster children need help as they grow, and so that they cab
succeed in the world. Foster children need the stability that a good home can
provide while they and their parents resolve their problems.
As
a foster parent, you will work with the childs' birth parents. This too can be
challenging, but is an important part of the foster parents' role.
Foster
parents are part of a team that works with every child in care. This team is made
up of social service workers, school officials, other service providers and the
childs' birth parents. this team will work with you, the child and the birth parents
to resolve the difficulties that led to the foster care placement.
Source:
Oneida County Department of Social ServicesFor more information
on becoming a foster or adoptive parent contact:
