Fostering during
COVID-19 can
change a life.
We know you probably have questions or concerns about what fostering looks like right now. We’re here to answer your questions and make sure you have all the support you need to get started.
COVID-19 has changed our lives in many ways. As we all adjust to a new normal, Foster Plus agencies are as committed as ever to supporting our foster families and the children they care for.* That means everyone’s safety comes first.
* Policies may be different from agency to agency. If you have questions, call your agency directly.
COVID-19 has made it hard for foster parents to get time off. Relief parenting is a great way to give them the break they need. With the right training and support, there are safe ways to work alongside a foster family.
Foster Plus agencies are using the POD System for relief parents. What does that mean?
Foster Plus supports relief parents from day one and makes sure you have the training and resources you need to reduce your health risks while supporting foster parents.
We love questions. And we’re here to help you find the answers you need. Take a look below at our Frequently Asked Questions, or feel free to reach out to us via phone at 855-838-4113 or email at info@fosterplus.org.
We are committed to your safety and will do everything we can to support you and your health. However, it is important for you to feel confident that fostering is the best for you and your family at this time. The decision is ultimately a personal one.
Your Foster Plus agency is there to provide you with training and support to help you navigate a situation like this. If someone has symptoms of COVID-19, you will first need to:
If the individual tests positive they will need to self-isolate for 14 days.
Your agency will make sure you have the training and the help to make a plan for how to navigate a situation like this. If someone has symptoms of COVID-19, you will be told immediately and families will:
If the individual tests positive they will need to self-isolate for 14 days and you will not be asked to participate in relief parenting until it is safe to do so.
You will not have to quarantine. But you will need to follow safety practices such as:
A POD system is an arrangement between a limited number of households in order to minimize health risks during the pandemic. Important guidelines include:
Foster Plus agencies will work directly with your family to ensure that you feel comfortable before bringing a child into your home, including taking extra steps to make you feel safe.
Foster children are following the guidelines of their local school district. Some children are attending school in person, while others are distance learning. There is some support for additional in-home instruction for children with a trusted adult known to the family.
Yes. Please be sure to check with your Foster Plus agency to discuss travel plans and understand current expectations and requirements prior to finalizing plans.
To foster with a Foster Plus agency, you must meet the following basic requirements:
Local agencies may have additional requirements beyond those listed here. Contact your local agency to learn more.
Foster Plus agencies provide foster parents a stipend starting at $1,400/month. The stipend varies among agencies and based on the needs of each kid. It’s used to cover costs such as food, transportation, clothing, utility bills and activities.
Yes. All families must go through a certification process before qualifying. Training is an important part of this process, and you’ll receive specialized training to make sure you’re ready to address the young person’s specific needs. Download our information sheet to learn more about the training and support you'll receive.
The placement process is a team effort, and your local agency's staff will work to understand which young people will be the best fit for your family. During the certification process, your certifier will work with you to determine your strengths, helping to ensure a successful match with each placement.
Support staff are available around the clock to help you with any issues that may arise. You’ll receive a list of contacts and are encouraged to reach out any time. In addition, you’ll receive specialized training to help you address a number of specific situations.
The certification process usually takes between six weeks and four months, but this can vary among local agencies. Download our information sheet to learn more.