Last year, The House of the Good Shepherd's foster care program helped 449 children, but the need for new foster care homes continues to grow.

Foster parents can be single-parent families, blended families, same-sex partners, empty nesters, or those that may not be able to have biological children of their own — anyone who can provide support, guidance, and a caring environment for children who have been through trauma.

Foster children of all ages need short-term care as their families receive services to work toward reunification. If family reunification isn't possible, foster parents help the child work toward adoption, kinship (placement with a relative), or living independently.

Foster parents must be 21 years or older and complete this process:

  • Complete the foster care application  
  • Participate in an orientation  
  • Successfully complete The House's free 10-week MAPP Class training by meeting one on one, in your home, or in a group setting  
  • Pass a State Central Registry Database check/ criminal background check  
  • Be an active participant in the certification/ approval process  

They also receive this support from The House:

  • Professional staff on call 24/7 
  • Individual, family, and group counseling 
  • Case management 
  • Psychiatric/psychological evaluation/consultation  
  • Independent living skill acquisition 
  • Respite care
  • Medical staff 

When you become a foster parent, you want to make a positive difference in a child’s life. You don’t anticipate the positive changes it brings to your life. If you're interested in opening your heart and home, visit uticafostercare.com.

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