Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first steps in becoming a resource parent?
Call 1-877-257-0176 and request an information packet be sent to you. Complete any information provided in the packet and return it to the representative listed. You may be invited to to attend PRIDE Pre-Service Training. The training consists of nine classes (27 hours) of foster care and child welfare information.
What are the PRIDE Pre-Service Training classes like?
The goals of the classes are to help:
- Protect and nurture children.
- Meet children's developmental needs and addressing developmental delays.
- Support relationships between children and their families.
- Connect children to safe, nurturing relationships intended to last a lifetime.
- Work as a member of the professional team.
Who are the children in need of homes?
Children in foster care come from all ethnic and religious backgrounds. These children have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect. These children are 0-18 years, many have brothers and sisters who wish to remain together, children with developmental delays, medically-fragile children, and teens who need caring families to help them learn independent living skills.
These children need caring families who support their birth family and work towards reunification. Other children long for a place to call home and a loving, permanent family through adoption.
How long does a child usually stay in foster care?
A child may be in your home for a few weeks, months, or longer. The length of stay depends on the needs of the child and his/her parent's participation in correcting the problems that were brought to the attention of NDHHS. The child's case manager works with the birth parent's and resource family regarding the goals and needs of the child and family.
Do I get to choose the children who come into my home?
Resource families select the age range and gender of the children that come into their home. These children have suffered serious disruption from being removed from their homes and will grieve the loss of their parents, siblings, personal belongings, etc. Every attempt is made to match a child to a family who is able to meet the child's individual needs, but sometimes this is not possible because of the foster home shortage.
What kind of financial and medical help is available?
Resource parents are reimbursed by the state for the care of a child. This reimbursement assists the parents in providing basic needs of the child such as food, clothing, shelter, allowance, school supplies, and respite care. Medicaid covers the child's medical, dental, and mental health needs.