Choices Foster Care Solutions provides a monthly support group that is led by foster parent, Charles Brown. In addition to his years of foster parent experience, Charles also produces and hosts a podcast called “Raising Other People’s Kids”. His expert guests are available to engage in further training and discussion with foster parents at these monthly support groups, which helps foster parents meet their training hour requirements. Childcare is provided, as well. We like to think of it as a win-win for foster parents!
We’re proud to offer a library of resources to our Indiana foster parents.
The foster care system can seem daunting and difficult to navigate. You may have questions about whether it’s a good fit for you or your family.
We want to help you understand what the world of foster care really looks like, and debunk some of the myths you may have heard along the way.
Check out our Myths & Facts below.
FACT: Foster homes must demonstrate an ability to meet their family’s needs without foster care per diem. Foster parents are given reimbursement in the form of a “per diem” for each foster child in their home. This is solely for the benefit of the child and should cover their basic needs for food, clothing, etc.
FACT: More often than not, teenage children in foster care entered substitute care due to abuse and neglect by their caregivers and have no criminal justice involvement.
FACT: Foster parents can form a supportive relationship with the biological parents that benefits the child(ren). This relieves stress for the child during a time of uncertainty and creates positive relationships between the foster family and biological family that may last after children return home.
FACT: Foster parents are often living busy lives, and their homes may reflect that. Homes should be sanitary and free from hazardous or unsafe conditions. Otherwise, don’t sweat a carpet stain or stacks of laundry. We get it!
FACT: Foster parents come to us with a variety of life and parenting experiences. Some have previous parenting experience, but many others do not. It is not required that a foster parent have previous parenting experience.
FACT: Foster parents must have a stable living environment and should be in a position to operate or maintain that environment. A rental property is just fine as long as it provides the minimum space required per foster child. Foster parents can be married, single, or in a cohabitating relationship for at least a year.
FACT: While most children in foster care have experienced some degree of trauma, a healthy relationship with their foster parents and the right therapeutic supports can aid children in healing from this trauma. Numerous former foster youths have attended college or vocational schools, have careers, and are leading healthy and fulfilling lives.
FACT: Foster parents are not expected to provide medical insurance to foster youth or to cover the costs of medical/dental appts and procedures. The majority of foster children are covered by Medicaid. In the event that children are ineligible for Medicaid, the Department of Child Services will cover these costs.
FACT: Both the Department of Child Services and Choices Foster Care Solutions have policies in place to assist with these costs.