FOSTER CARE PROGRAM

License Application | Training/Class Schedules

Who Are Foster Children?

There are thousands of children in California's foster care system who require temporary out-of-home care due to parental neglect, abuse or exploitation.  Some children stay in foster care for weeks, some for years. The children are of all ages and varying needs. Some will need the temporary home to turn into a permanent home if they cannot be reunited with their birth families.

What is Foster Care?

Foster parents provide a supportive and stable environment for children who cannot live with their birth parents until family problems are resolved. In most cases, the foster parents work with Department of Social Services staff to reunite the child with his/her birth family. Foster parents often provide care to many different children.

Foster parents provide the basics, including food, clothing and protection. They arrange for medical and dental care, education and encourage positive relationships.

How Does One Become a Foster Parent?

A license is required to operate a foster home. The process requires completing an application packet and a visit from a licensing social worker to meet with you and other family members in your home. Law mandates minimal personal, safety and space requirements. The Application Packet is available here or by calling the licensing social worker at El Dorado County, Department of Human Services at (530) 642-7100. Upon receipt, you will be provided with the remainder of the information packet and a home visit will be scheduled.

Can I afford to do this?

Foster parents receive a monthly payment to help feed, clothe and meet the material needs of the child placed in their care.

What if the child gets sick?

Medical and dental coverage are provided through the Medi-Cal program.

Do I have to be married?

Foster parents may be married or single.

Are there age limits?

Age requirements are flexible as long as your health, energy and desire are appropriate. Retired foster parents are also needed.

Will I need special training?

You will be required to complete 12 hours of pre-licensing training in subjects related to child rearing and be certified in first aid and cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Each year you will be required to complete eight additional hours of training in parenting skills. West Slope Area Training is sponsored by Folsom Lake College and the El Dorado County Human Services Department.  South Lake Tahoe Area Training is sponsored by Lake Tahoe Community College

Who will work with me to ensure the best plan for the child?

The Department of Human Services staff work with foster parents to determine the type of child best suited for your home and to develop the case plan for the child's care during the time he/she will be there. They also make leave plans when it is time for the child to go.