Become a Foster Parent
Thank you for considering becoming a foster parent. Why become a foster parent? Currently in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts there is a great need for safe, nurturing homes and families for children and adolescents. Becoming a foster parent can feel like a long process but we are here to guide you. Here is a quick glance at the requirements of becoming a foster parent in MA and RI:
Rhode Island Foster Care
- Background clearances of all household members 18 and older.
- Home must meet safety and licensing standards and complete DCYF Fire Inspection and Lead/Safety Inspection.
- Complete TIPPS-MAPP (Trauma Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanence Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting) training
Massachusetts Foster Care
- Background clearances of all household members 14 and older. Results are considered on a case by case basis.
- Home must meet safely licensing standards, such as having smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, working heat and running water.
- Complete MAPP Training (Massachusetts Approach to Partnerships in Parenting)
Becoming a foster/adoptive parent requires flexibility, a sense of humor, a willingness to grow and learn, but most of all a commitment to provide a safe, nurturing, and loving home for a child. The application and licensing process is the same for foster and adoptive families.
FAQ
Why should I become a Foster Parent?
CFP provides foster care for children, adolescents and young adults who are in the custody of the Massachusetts Department of Children & Families (DCF) and the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Our program serves clients whose ages range from birth/infancy to young adults up till their 22nd birthdays. The majority of our clients have special needs such as behavioral or emotional problems, medical conditions, physical handicaps or developmental delays. They may require additional support services to be successful in your home and CFP staff will work with you to find and obtain those services. If you are over the age of 21 and are willing to complete the required background checks, pre-placement training and foster parent homestudy, you could provide a safe and stable home for a child in need.
What supports will I receive as a CFP foster parent?
- We treat our foster parents like family
- Committed, supportive staff ready to help at every turn
- Timely tax-free stipends
- Pre-Service & ongoing trainings
- We will guide you through the licensing process
- Dedicated funds for clothing and activities
- Ongoing support from staff and other foster families
- Clinical support
- CFP staff is available 24 hours a day for support
- Assistance in managing medical, dental and clinical services
- Foster parent support groups to connect with other foster parents
- Foster parent recognition, appreciation and advocacy
- Regular visits to your home
- Mindful matching process