Becoming a foster parent is one of the most rewarding experiences for a family. Caring for children who have been abused and being a role model for the biological parents who are working to be reunified with their children is the ultimate public trust. Becoming a foster parent is a mutual selection process by which the family and the CNSWFL are working together to assess the strengths and needs of the family to determine if the foster parent program is a suitable match for both of us. The primary steps to becoming a foster parent are as follows:
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Call 1 (855) 933-KIDS (5437)
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If you are ready for the committment, then you must complete a 30 Hour Pre-Service Parenting Program (once a week, 3 hours) called PRIDE
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All household members must pass an extensive criminal background screening
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The home must pass an environmental health inspection
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The home must be safe and have adequate space for additional children to reside
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The family must be financially stable and capable of providing for additional children
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The family must have reliable and safe transportation
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References provided must include: personal, professional, neighbor, family and school (for families with children living in the home)
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A licensing counselor will complete and in-depth assessment of the family called a "home study"
The process from the time of the inquiry until a family receives a license is different depending on the circumstances but averages 3-5 months. If you are interested in learning more about the process, please call 1 (855) 933-KIDS (5437) or email NBeeson@cnswfl.org for an informational packet and schedule of classes in your area.
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, the first thing you need to do is attend an orientation. To receive more information by mail, please fill out the form below. Send this form via email to: NBeeson@cnswfl.org or mail the form to Children's Network, Attn. Nancy Beeson at 2232 Altamont Ave. Ft. Myers, FL 33901 or call 1-855-933-KIDS (5437).
