If you are planning to become a Resource Parent, questions like “What is foster care, exactly?” and “How does the foster care system work?” are at the top of your mind. That’s why in today’s blog, we answer some of the most common questions about foster care, the children placed in foster care, and the foster care system.
Who Are the Children in Foster Care?
Children who are placed in foster care come from different backgrounds and experiences. They could be infants, toddlers, teenagers, or even young adults who are transitioning out of the foster care system.
The reasons why they come into care vary from child to child, but the most common reasons include neglect, abuse, abandonment, exploitation, or parental incarceration.
How Does the Foster Care System Work?
When a child is removed from their home by Child Protective Services (CPS), they are first placed in temporary emergency foster care.
After this initial placement, the foster care agency begins looking for a family that can provide long-term care and support for the child. However, foster homes are always in high demand, and finding the right placement for the child can take time.
Who Are Foster / Resource Parents?
When children are placed in foster care, an adult known as a foster parent or Resource Parent welcomes them into their home and provides them with a nurturing and stable environment.
Resource Parents receive extensive training and support to ensure they can provide a safe and loving environment for the child.
To this end, Resource Parents receive a monthly payment to feed, clothe, and meet the material needs of the children placed in their care. In some cases, Resource Parents provide care to many different children.
Wrapping It Up
Foster care is an essential safety net for children who are unable to live with their biological families.
Resource Parents provide a safe and supportive environment that helps children heal from past trauma and builds resilience for the future.
If you are considering becoming a Resource Parent yourself, or would like to learn more about how you can support children in foster care, contact our team at Smiles and Tears Children and Family Services today. Remember, every child deserves a safe and loving home.
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.