How old do I have to be to become a foster parent?
The minimum age requirement in Michigan is 18 years old.
Do I have to live in a house to be licensed for foster care?
No! Homes that can be licensed for foster care can include houses, apartments, townhomes, and manufactured homes.
How long does it take to be licensed for foster care?
The certification process typically takes between 6 to 12 months.
How much training do I need to be a foster/adoptive parent?
You will complete GROW training, which is about 25 hours of training, plus at least one applicant must be CPR/First Aid Certified.
Do my partner and I have to be married to be licensed?
No! Foster parents can be single, married, or just living together.
Do foster parents get paid?
Yes. Foster parents are paid a daily rate determined by MDHHS that is paid every two weeks.
What is the goal of foster care?
The primary goal of foster care is always reunification with the legal parents/guardians of the child. However, if it is determined this is not in the child's best interest, the goal can be changed to adoption, guardianship, or APPLA
How long will it take for a child to be placed in my home?
Placement can vary depending on the perimeters of your license! If you are licensed to accept children that are in high need of homes (see last question), it is likely you'll get placement faster.
What if I only want to adopt?
You can work with our adoption team to become approved for adoption only and seek inquiries on websites like MARE or AdoptUsKids.
How do children enter foster care?
When CPS determines that a child is at imminent risk or abuse or neglect, they may enter foster care by way of court order. Relative placement is prioritized, but if not attainable, the child may be placed in a licensed foster home.
Where is there the most need for foster parents right now?
Foster homes that accept teenagers (age 12 to 18), sibling groups, LGBTQ+ affirming, and special needs children are in the most need.
How can I help?
Consider becoming a foster parent and going to our contact page to get more information! Volunteering and becoming a mentor can also be an option if taking in children is not currently in the cards.