Become a Foster Parent

One of our greatest, on-going needs is having enough foster parents to provide homes for the children that need our help. As the number of children who come into our care increases, the need for foster parents increases too.

How do I Become a Foster Parent?
You will be asked to fill out an application, schedule interviews with our staff both at your home and our offices, authorize us to check for criminal and protective services history and provide personal references. You will also begin attending foster parent orientation and training at this time.

What are my Responsibilities? 

To provide a safe, clean, loving and secure home. You are also responsible to monitor the child’s schoolwork, coordinate with the child’s social worker for visits with the child’s parents and provide or arrange transportation to counseling appointments, if needed. The most important responsibility is assuring that the children in your care feel safe, secure and accepted everyday.

Is there Special Training? 

D.A. Blodgett - St. John’s provides all the training and assessment services in order to become licensed at no charge. Licensing through the state of Michigan takes about 12 weeks and includes interviews in your home as well as criminal and protective services checks, FBI fingerprinted, other forms and references. There is also orientation and training which is required to become a foster parent. The child’s social worker is always available to answer questions and address any concerns that arise.

Is there Financial Reimbursement for being a Foster Parent? 

Foster parents receive monthly payments for each child, based on a daily rate of reimbursement established by the Department of Human Services. These payments cover the cost of providing room and board, clothing and the child’s allowance. Medical coverage is provided through Medicaid or through the legal family’s insurance. The Department of Human Services also has day care funding available for foster parents who work outside the home. Medical, dental and psychological services are provided on site at D.A. Blodgett - St. John’s through our agency medical clinic. We also have a part time nurse on staff to assist with appointments and medical questions.

Do I have to have my own Home? 

No. You may rent. Your home must be clean, safe and must always have a phone. Children of the opposite sex five years of age and older may not share a bedroom.

Do I have to be Married?
No. We gladly accept people regardless of their marital status.

For more information, please contact Deb Disler at 616.451.2021 or to email her, click here.

For real stories of real kids who have been impacted by foster care, click here.