Information AboutFoster Home |
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Requirements to be a foster parent vary by jurisdiction, as do monetary reimbursement and other benefits which they receive. In some states, foster parents may be single or a couple, younger or older adults, with or without biological children in their home. Often, "empty nesters" whose children have grown up and left the home may choose to take in foster children. Foster care is intended to be a temporary living situation for children. The goal of foster care is to reunify with their parent or guardian or find another suitable permanent living arrangement. This may include an adoptive home, guardianship, or placement with a relative. At times, the bond that develops during foster care will lead to the foster parents adopting the child. In some instances, children may be placed in a long-term foster placement. For older adolescents, a foster care program may offer education and resources to prepare for a transition to independent living. Foster homes in the United States In the United States , foster home licensing requirements vary from state to state but are generally overseen by the state's Department of " Social Services " or "Human Services". In many states children unable to function in a foster home, usually due to behavioral problems stemming from Child Abuse and neglect, are placed in Residential Treatment Facilities (RTFs) or other such group homes meant to treat children with similar backgrounds. The focus of treatment in such facilities is to prepare the child for a return to a foster home, to an adoptive home, or to the biological parents when applicable. However, adoption of children who are considered a special need in foster care is an ongoing social problem within the United States often due to the lack of funding that could pay to train foster parents to appropriately care for children with special needs. Recent United States Foster Care Legislation On November 19, 1997, President before being available for Adoption . The new law requires state Child Welfare agencies to identify cases where "aggravated circumstances" make permanent separation of child from biological family the best option for the safety and well-being of the child. External links
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