Since 1992
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LEWISTON — While you can’t turn back time and relive your own youth, you can give a child a chance by opening your heart — and opening your home. There are thousands of kids who are in desperate need of a second chance at a happy childhood. KidsPeace offers a variety of services for youths in need of care. If you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, here are some typical questions you may have had, with answers from KidsPeace:
Q. HOW DO I BECOME A KIDSPEACE FOSTER PARENT?
A. You can visit us online at Fostercare.com to learn more about KidsPeace and becoming a foster parent. You can fill out an inquiry online or contact your local KidsPeace office to discuss your interest. You will be given information on the steps that need to be taken in the process. The application process involves visits to your home. Staff gather paperwork, interview family members, and fully explain the responsibilities of foster parenting. Our careful screening process helps you determine whether or not foster parenting is right for you.
Q. WHAT QUALITIES SHOULD I POSSESS TO BECOME A FOSTER PARENT?
A. Generally, our most successful foster parents are open-minded, dependable, patient and willing to learn new parenting styles for children with different needs. Having a flexible schedule, being tolerant of change and demonstrating the ability to follow our guidelines are all important qualities for success.
Q. DO I NEED A FOSTER PARENTING LICENSE OR ANY SPECIAL TRAINING?
A. Yes, you will be required to be licensed by the state. We’ll assist you in the licensing process. We provide training, in-person support, 24 hour on-call support, and other tools to help you learn and develop your skills along the way. To be a therapeutic foster parent you will need to have a traditional foster care license for one year or have at least six months of direct care experience working with children with mental health disabilities.
Q. WHAT KIND OF HELP AND SUPPORT WILL I GET?
A. KidsPeace has an impeccable reputation for the support we provide our foster children and families. We maintain frequent, consistent contact, and we’re available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to support and guide you.
Q. WHAT KINDS OF KIDS WILL YOU PLACE IN MY HOME?
A. When it comes to foster children, one size does not fit all. There’s no typical foster child: some kids are stepping down from residential treatment; some have developmental delays; some have suffered unspeakable abuse; some have never been required to follow the rules; and some have built walls around themselves to keep out the hurt. It won’t be easy to help a child who has known such pain and upheaval, but we’ll train you on how to handle the specific needs of your foster child.
Q. DO CHILDREN EVER BECOME AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION?
A. Yes. Sometimes, for various reasons, children are unable to return home. Foster families are always given adoption consideration when a child in their home needs a permanent family.
Are you up to the challenge? Contact Fostercare.com/.
