Jacob Center - Frequently Asked Questions:

· What is foster care?

Foster care is the temporary placement of children with families outside of their home due to child abuse and neglect. The goal is to provide a safe, stable, and nurturing environment.

· Will I be able to specify the age and sex of the child I want to care for?

Yes. Families for children between the ages of 11 and 16 and sibling groups are currently the greatest need.

· How long does a child stay in the foster home?

A child’s stay in foster care depends on how long it takes to achieve a permanent placement for the child. The plan may be reunification with the child’s family, placement with relatives, or adoption. A child may be placed in a foster home for one day or one year.

· Does it cost a lot of money to be a foster parent?

No, foster parents receive monthly compensation per child. All of a foster child’s medical, dental, and therapeutic services are covered under Medicaid.

· Do I have to own my own home?

No, you can own or rent a home, apartment, or mobile home. However you do have to have space for a foster child according to the requirements set for by the State.

· What is a home study?

A home study is a collaborative effort with the family to help determine if foster care will fit their family dynamics. A staff member will assess the potential foster home and complete a written summary on the strengths, skills, and any other qualifications that will help deal with the challenges of foster parenting.

· What type of support do foster parents receive?

Each family is assigned a case manager who is responsible for providing support to the foster parents. Supportive services include respite care, training, therapeutic services, and 24 hour on call case manager availability.

· How to get started?

Call 970-484-8427 ext. 23 and ask for our Foster Care Coordinator-Barbara Baldovin