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Why Foster?
Deciding to become foster or adoptive parents is a big decision, but it is a decision that children need more families to say YES to. Many kids in Central Texas are living in foster care, some are waiting for their parents to work through services before they can go home, and some are waiting for their forever family. There are many things to consider prior to making the decision to pursue adoption or becoming a foster parent. It’s good to take your time and make sure this is the right fit for your family.
So What is the difference between fostering and adopting?
Fostering means that you are committing to caring for a child during one of the most challenging times of their lives. The majority of foster placements are set with a goal of reunification. Reunification means that fostering is temporary, and we don’t always know how long the placement is going to be. What we do know is that children who are placed in homes where they are provided with stable, nurturing and positive relationships during their time away from their families makes a HUGE impact on their lives.
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Take some time to view some of the top Child Placing Agencies in Central Texas to get your license.
Adoption
There are so many children in foster care awaiting their forever families. Children spend on average, two years waiting for an adoptive family once parental rights have been terminated. In most cases, they're a sibling group, children of color or they are teenagers. Families can also opt to do foster-to-adopt placements. In this avenue, placement is planned out. While reunification is still the goal, the opportunity to adopt the child (ren) is also a possibility – though not guaranteed. Many families utilize this point of entry so if they ever decide to adopt, they already maintain the correct license. No matter what path you choose, think about the impact that your family can have on not just a child in need, but an entire community.
Foster Care in Texas
Journey to Licensing
To become a foster or adoptive parent the state requires you to be licensed/certified by a child placing agency. The licensing process can take anywhere from two to four months depending on the agency you choose and the time it takes you to complete your paperwork.
Applicants must be:
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21 Years or Older
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Financially Responsible
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Pass FBI and State background checks
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Agree to a home study
If you have ever considered becoming a temporary or permanent placement for a child, don’t wait. Ask questions! Start thinking about it now and follow the NEXT STEPS in your journey
