Here are the most frequently asked questions about FAQ! If you can think of another question please message us and we will add it to our list!
How do I begin fostering?
- Check to make sure that your home meets Alabama Minimum Standards
- Download and complete the Application
- Find the mailing address of your County DHR
- A Social Worker should contact you within a week. If you do not hear from someone call weekly to check in.
Can I choose what age range and gender I’m most comfortable with? ABSOLUTELY only you know what ages work best for your family. As part of your training program you will tell your social worker what ranges you’re willing to foster.
What are the minimum.maximum age requirements? 19 years old – as long as you meet health requirements.
Can single adults foster? Foster parents may be single (single includes never married or legally divorced) or married.
How long do you have to be married before you can foster? If living together in a relationship, foster parents shall have been married in a legal ceremony or by common law (prior to 2017), as defined by law, and have been married for at least one year.
What will be required after I apply?
- A Financial Statement
- A Physical Exam
- Two background checks
- Tips training (30 hours over 10 weeks)
- A Completed Home study
Are we allowed to have pets? Yes, as long as they adhere to minimum standards, A) An animal shall not be kept if the animal has shown aggressive behavior. B) Animals shall have an annual certificate of rabies vaccination on file in the home if required by law to be vaccinated. C) An animal that is not aggressive but could pose a threat to the health and safety of children such as, but not limited to lizards, snakes and turtles, shall be routinely confined (e.g. a cage or an aquarium) in an appropriate container.
Do I have to pay for healthcare? No, all children who are in foster care may qualify to receive Medicaid through the state of Alabama. You will not pay for health, vision, prescription, and dentist costs.
Do I have to pay for daycare? Children who are in foster care may qualify for CMA that pays for childcare for children under 5 years old.
Can you do a more “temporary” style foster care? Yes, this is called Emergency care (usually 3 days or less) or Respite Care (usually a week or less). You will still be required to get a foster care home approval.
Are foster home approvals within the state transferable between counties? Yes, if you move within state your approval may transfer. You would need to contact your local DHR. People moving from other states may have to take renewal classes.