While providing a safe and nurturing environment for foster children can be incredibly rewarding, it’s undeniable that foster parents need help. The good news is that a wide range of resources and support systems are available for resource parents.
1. Training and Preparation
At Smiles and Tears Children and Family Services, we offer a range of training programs to help foster parents learn and prepare for the challenges they may face.
These training courses may cover everything from emotional support, medical care, education, legal and procedural matters, and other essential aspects of foster parenting.
Some of these programs are mandatory for all new foster parents and help prepare individuals before they become caregivers to a child or children.
2. Financial Support
From food to transportation, the financial cost of caring for a foster child can be substantial.
That’s why a range of financial assistance is available to resource parents, including a monthly Foster Care Funding designed to support the child’s basic needs.
Additionally, foster parents can also qualify for tax credits that reduce their tax liability.
3. Staff Available 24/7
We understand that caring for a child is an always ongoing commitment and that important questions can arise at any time of the day, or even at night.
That’s why at Smiles and Tears Children and Family Services, we have staff available 24/7 to provide assistance to resource parents.
This way you can breathe easy knowing that knowledgeable advice is just one phone call away whenever you need it.
4. Medical Staff
The physical and mental health of a child is a crucial component of their overall well-being.
As part of the assistance offered to foster parents, medical staff is available to monitor and maintain the health of foster children, providing care targeted to their unique needs.
5. Support Communities
Supportive communities are essential for foster parents. Regular foster parent support groups, online forums, workshops, and other programs provide a community in which foster parents can share experiences and seek support from others facing similar challenges.
This is a great way to connect with other resource parents, understand their experiences, and share tips and insights that can help with family and foster care management.
Wrapping It Up
The decision to become a foster parent is a selfless choice that requires support and assistance from a range of resources to ensure success.
Whether it is financial support, training, or medical staff, we offer a range of programs that can significantly aid resource parents in their caregiving efforts.
By taking advantage of these resources, foster parents can provide the best possible care for the children in their care while remaining emotionally and physically stable themselves.
Smiles and Tears: Keeping the Promise of a Better Family Agency
Smiles and Tears is a nonprofit foster family agency licensed by the State of California. Our fundamental goal is to help children in need find a loving home where they can thrive.
We are located at 925 North Garey Avenue,Pomona, CA. Contact us today by phone at 909-469-9580 or send us an email at admin@smilesandtears.org