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Foster Care

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5 Steps to Become a Foster Parent

    • After orientation, the agency you selected will provide you with a licensing application packet. In general, the application steps are:

      • Schedule fingerprinting with your licensing agency.
      • Complete the foster home licensing application.
      • Submit your application and fingerprinting clearance form to your licensing worker.
      • Complete medical records for the entire family.
      • Complete any other requested paperwork with your licensing worker.

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    This training offers valuable information to make sure you are ready to become a foster parent. The entire training includes 20-25 hours of content, which will satisfy the pre-licensure training requirement.

    The acronym GROW stands for:

    1. Grow culturally responsive relationships.
    2. Recognize children's developmental needs and the impact of trauma.
    3. Obtain information and resources.
    4. Work in partnership with families to support healthy relationships.
    • Before welcoming a foster child into your home, you must pass an on-site home evaluation performed by the licensing agent.

      The agency you selected will meet with your family several times for on-site home visits and interviews. After you attend orientation and submit your application, your agency will schedule your first home visit.

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Learn more about volunteer opportunities and becoming a volunteer.
Volunteer Opportunities
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Whether you've decided to become foster parents or just want to learn more about the process, these materials offer additional information to make the journey as smooth as possible.
Raise Awareness about Becoming a Foster Parent - Download & Share
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Michigan Education Trust scholarships benefit young adults who have experienced foster care.

Make College Dreams Come True - Fostering Futures Scholarship