Becoming a Foster Parent

Becoming a Foster Parent

Q. What are the requirements of me to become a Foster Parent?

A. To become a Foster Parent, you must:

• Be an adult 21 years or older
• Have a home that meets criteria, including a bedroom available for the youth
• Have another source of income
• Have reliable transportation
• Complete background clearances
• Complete a 10-week pre-service training, as well as ongoing training

Q. What kind of training and support is offered for Foster Parents? 

A. The Therapeutic Foster Care Program provides intensive pre-service and ongoing training for Foster Parents. Foster Parents and Family Specialists meet twice monthly to review progress, service planning, safety of the home, and treatment issues. A 24-hour emergency on-call system also provides assistance as needed.

Q. What population of children is served through this program? 

A. The target population is children and youth and their siblings ranging from birth through 21 years of age who have:

• serious emotional difficulties
• behavioral difficulties
• and/or developmental disabilities

Q. What kind of services are offered to children and families in this program? 

A. Behavior management training and counseling services assist the youth in developing problem-solving and coping skills while supporting the reinforcement and generalization of newly-learned positive behaviors in school, home, and other community settings.

Q. What benefits are there for Foster Parents? 

A. Foster parents receive ongoing training, 24-hour support, tax-free stipends, and the satisfaction of knowing that you helped a child succeed!

Q. What is the process to become a Foster Parent? 

A. If you are interested in becoming a Foster Parent you should contact (607) 937-4520 or (585) 434-3166 x5401. All Foster Parents must meet with Agency staff, complete a 10-week pre-service training class including an application and home study. In addition, background clearances are completed.

Learn more by completing the Foster Parent Interest Form!

Contact

To help a youth or sibling group in need, or to learn more about becoming a Foster Parent,  contact:

Executive Vice President, Care Coordination & Contract Management

Administrative Office
Pathways, Inc.
33 Denison Parkway West, Corning, New York 14830
T: (607) 937-4520 F: (607) 937-3206

Rochester Office
700 W Metro Park, Suite 200, Rochester, New York 14623
T: (585) 434-3166 x5401 F: (585) 434-3167