BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT

As of March 31st 2009, 52% of children removed from their homes and placed in foster care have Aboriginal status. Although there has been an increased effort to place children in homes within their community, the fact is there are simply not enough homes available. More then ever, we need caring, culturally sensitive adults who are able and willing to provide safe, secure and happy homes to Aboriginal children.

Foster care is a temporary arrangement. The goal is to return children to their families when the necessary physical, mental, social and spiritual supports have been established. Foster care provides quality care to children, and time for their parents to prepare for the child’s return. Because 80% of children will be reunited with their families, foster parents often have an on-going relationship with the child's family, extended family and cultural community.

The Federation of Aboriginal Foster Parents does not process foster parent applications, however we can offer education, assistance and support throughout the application process and throughout your time as a caregiver.

Included in this package you will find an FAFP application form, information on becoming a foster parent and some resources to help you get started. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

In Friendship,
The FAFP Staff and Board of Directors.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A GOOD CAREGIVER

• Loving
• Socially and Community Minded
• Resourceful
• Good Problem Solver
• Proactive
• Gifted Communicator and Mediator
• Patient
• Open Minded and Understanding
• Good Role Model (has a personal wellness plan)
• Has a Positive Outlook on life

FOSTER CARE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

• There are approximately 9,200 children in care in British Columbia. 
• 51% of children removed from their homes and placed in foster care have Aboriginal Status.
• Between 1995-2001 there was a 71.5% increase in the number of on-reserve children with status being placed in foster care.
• There are currently about 4,000 foster and group homes providing care to children and youth.

FOSTERING ABORIGINAL CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Common Questions

What is Foster Care?
Foster care is temporary. It provides a safe and secure home for children who, for one reason or another, can not live with their families. Foster families receive financial support to assist in the provision of quality care to children and youth. The goal of foster care is for children to return home when their parents are able to care for them. 80% of children are returned home within the first 12 months.

Why Do We Need Aboriginal Foster Parents?
Aboriginal children make up roughly 512% of the children in care. They are not only separated from their families, but many times are also separated from their language and culture. In ideal situations, all Aboriginal children would be placed in Aboriginal homes, preferably from their same nation, where they will receive parental and cultural guidance. Having a secure cultural identity has proven to make children more resilient through this tough time in their young lives. Also, living in a home similar to their community and culture will often make their transition home easier.

If they are placed in non-Aboriginal homes they might not learn about their history and traditions. Sadly, there are not enough Aboriginal homes and many First Nations, Métis and Inuit children in care are growing up without fully knowing who they are and where they come from. That’s why Aboriginal caregivers are urgently needed.

Who Can Foster Aboriginal Children?
To become a foster parent of Aboriginal children and youth, you must be over the age of 19 and have the maturity to provide care and guidance to children and youth. It is preferred that you have a clear understanding of Aboriginal culture and traditions, and a willingness to share these teachings with children in your home.

Single people, couples and families– with or without children– can all become foster parents. Your financial situation should not prevent you from applying. You do not need to own your own home, but should have additional rooms available to respect the privacy of the children and youth that will be staying with you.

Can I Chose Who I Foster?
Yes. When you apply to become a foster parent either through an Aboriginal Delegated Agency or through the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD), you will be asked who you would feel most comfortable fostering and you can specify age, special needs, and gender preferences. They will ask you about your skills and will take great care in making sure the child is suitable for your family. If a child comes into your home who you makes you or your family feel uncomfortable, or surpasses your skill level, notify your social worker immediately. They will make alternative arrangements.

BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT IN BRITISH COLUMBIA
The Approval Process

The Application & Approval Process
Your application will be processed by either MCFD or a Delegated Aboriginal Agency, depending on where you live. Please, look to the back page which explains how to find the correct contact within your area. The application process includes a number of steps:

Step 1: Information meeting
A social worker will invite you to an information meeting in your area. You will be able to discuss fostering with a social worker, a foster parent, and other prospective foster parents. In some smaller communities, you may meet with the social worker only. You will be given an application form, and be asked to complete a medical assessment.

• Application Form
  The application form will include a criminal records check that looks at ensuring a safe home for children.
• Medical Assessment
  You will be given a medical assessment form to be completed by your doctor, verifying that you have an appropriate wellness pan.
• References
  You will be asked to provide the names of three references, one of whom is a relative. Your references will each be sent a form to complete and may be interviewed either in person or by phone.

Step 2: Foster parent orientation course
Foster parent training will be provided in your area to help prepare you for the challenges of fostering.

Step 3: Home study
Your social worker will visit you in your home to discuss your personal history, family interests, lifestyle, child care experience, and the type of child you feel can best be helped in your home.

Step 4: Foster home agreement
Once the approval process is complete, you will be asked to sign an agreement that outlines your obligations and those of the Ministry or Delegated Aboriginal Agency. The length of time you will wait for a child depends on the age and type of child you want to foster and the needs of the community.

FAFP Can Help You Through This Process.

Want to know more? Call FAFP toll-free for more information:

1-866-291-7091