How do I become a Foster Parent? Where do I learn about adopting a foster child?

Our goal is to make the process to foster children or learn about being a forever family as easy to navigate as possible. The oversight for Palm Beach County's foster children and licensing is through the Florida Department of Children and Families' (DCF) designated Community Based Care (CBC) Provider: ChildNet which handles both Palm Beach and Broward Counties.

In Palm Beach County, the foster home management and licensing training is subcontracted by ChildNet through eight difference service providers.  The goal for Speak Up For Kids' Foster Palm Beach Program is to connect you with a licensing provider as conveniently and quickly as possible. 

Steps to becoming a foster parent or learn about adoption:

Step 1:  Attend an orientation. Visit our upcoming events page to schedule the next information session or orientation. Events are held through Palm Beach County several times a month.
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Step 2: Sign up for the next training class and complete the 21-30 hours of foster parent training.

Step 3: Complete the child abuse and criminal background check process.

Step 4: Participate in a home inspection.

Step 5: Complete a homestudy through your licensing provider who will help ensure your home is ready to provide a safe and caring environment for children.

Step 6: Wait patiently. Once all of the above are completed, the licensing provider will complete their portion of the paperwork, then submit for several levels of review. The process typically takes 3-6 months and the more diligent you are about completing the paperwork and readying your home, the more smooth the process and more quickly you will be able to help a child in need. Every aspect of the process is centered around providing a safe place for children to heal, grow, and thrive.

Click for info on the following:

• ​Frequently asked questions? 
• Who can become a foster parent?
• What are the foster care licensing requirements?
• Can I really make a difference? (see video)
• Are there other ways to help?
• What is a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate?
• What if I want to provide financial support or donate items?
• Who is the local foster and adoptive support agency?  Friends of Foster Children
• How do I adopt a child from foster care?
• Do teens really need foster homes?  
  
• What happens when foster kids turn 18?
• How do I mentor a foster child?
• Would it help if I hire a foster youth? Yes, call Vita Nova Inc. and ask for Liz Smiley