DCYF is looking for foster parents who possess the special qualities needed to make a firm commitment to nurture a child for as long as that child needs a home. The quality of care children receive while they are away from their homes is crucial. In addition to experiencing the problems which led to their entering foster care, all children suffer from the trauma of being separated from their families. Each child is assigned a social worker who assists the foster parents in coordinating the medical, educational, and supportive services the child needs to adjust. The children in need of foster homes are of all ages and ethnic backgrounds and range from drug exposed infants to teen mothers.
Some children have developmental disabilities or medical problems that require special attention.
Other children may exhibit emotional or behavioral problems. Foster parents are asked to specify what type of child they are interested in caring for and DCYF makes an effort to match children with foster families who can best meet their needs. There is presently a great need for foster families. Prospective foster parents are given as much information as possible so that they can decide if their family is a good choice for a particular child. There are no minimum income requirements and no maximum age limit.