Being a Foster Parent
Foster parents may be:
- Single adults, married couples, common-law couples, and same-sex partners
- Families just beginning to raise their own children
- ‘Empty-nesters’
- Experienced parents or people who have never had children
- Adults who have professional skills or special childcare training
- Stay-at-home adults or those working outside the home
Responsibilities of a Foster Parent
- Provide a safe, secure, and nurturing home for children coming into the temporary care of
- Children’s Aid Society while the child’s parents work to resolve issues
- Help children maintain a relationship with their parents and people who are important to the child
- Support children and help them stay connected to their community, school, and family
- Participate in planning for their care
Support for Foster Parents
- Assigned a Foster Care Support Worker who develops a personalized learning plan for your ongoing training and support
- Receive peer support through the Foster Parent Association
- Health and dental coverage provided by Children’s Aid Society
- Relief coverage
- Daily, non-taxable reimbursement to assist with the cost of food, clothing, shelter, and other living expenses for the children placed in your home
Assessing Foster Parents
- Police background and child welfare checks for all adults living in your home to ensure no history of child abuse or neglect
- Home visits by a Children’s Aid Society worker
- Proof of ability to provide a safe, supportive, and secure living environment for children, including stable family income
- References from people who know you
- Medical examination and reference from your doctor for everyone living in your home
You can also contact our Foster Care Recruitment Worker directly at 905.895.2318 (toll-free 1-800-718-3850) ext. 6132 or email fostering@yorkcas.org.