The process of becoming a foster parent in Georgia is not as difficult as one might think. There are many children in need of homes and loving families, and there are also many families who are interested in becoming foster parents but don’t know where to start. Here is a brief guide on how to become a foster parent in GA.
- Determine if you meet the basic requirements to become a foster parent in GA
- These include being at least 21 years old, having a stable income, passing a criminal background check and drug test, and completing required training courses
- Contact your local county Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to inquire about becoming a foster parent
- Each county has their own process for approving new foster parents
- Complete all required paperwork and home studies conducted by DFCS
- This will include an application, personal references, medical exams, and financial statements
- Attend mandatory training classes on topics such as child development, discipline techniques, and communicating with birth families
- Be prepared to open your home to children of all ages, races, religions, and abilities
- You will also need to be comfortable working with birth families and other professionals involved in the child’s life
REQUIREMENTS FOR BECOMING A FOSTER PARENT!
Georgia Foster Care Rates 2022
According to the Georgia Department of Human Services, the foster care rates for 2021-2022 are as follows:
The base rate for a foster child in a regular foster home is $30.00 per day.
The base rate for a foster child with special needs in a regular foster home is $35.00 per day.
The base rate for a foster child in a therapeutic foster home is $50.00 per day.
Credit: wellroot.org
How Much Do Foster Parents Get Paid in Georgia?
Foster parents in Georgia are paid a per diem, or daily rate, for each child in their care. The amount of the per diem depends on the age of the child and whether they have any special needs.
The base rate for an infant is $22.54 per day, while the rate for a school-aged child is $15.87 per day.
If a child has special needs that require additional care, foster parents may receive an additional $3.77 per day. In total, foster parents can expect to receive anywhere from $15.87 to $26.31 per day for each child in their care.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Foster Parent in Georgia?
There are many factors to consider when becoming a foster parent in Georgia. The average time it takes to become licensed and approved by the state is about six months, but this can vary depending on each individual situation. The first step is to attend an orientation meeting, which can be done online or in person.
After that, you will need to submit an application and complete a home study process, which includes background checks and interviews. Once you are approved, you will be matched with a child or children in need of foster care.
What Disqualifies You from Being a Foster Parent in Georgia?
There are a few things that could disqualify you from being a foster parent in Georgia. One is if you have been convicted of a felony within the last 10 years. This includes any convictions for crimes against children, such as child abuse or neglect, sexual assault, or production or distribution of child pornography.
You also cannot be currently on probation or parole for any felony offense.
Another thing that could disqualify you is if you have had your parental rights terminated for another child within the last 5 years. Additionally, if you have been investigated for child abuse or neglect by any state agency within the last 5 years, this could also lead to ineligibility.
Additionally, there are certain medical conditions which may make someone ineligible to be a foster parent. These include active drug addiction, untreated mental illness, and contagious tuberculosis. If an applicant has any of these conditions, they must get them under control before they can be considered eligible to foster children.
How Much Does It Cost to Foster a Child in Georgia?
According to the website of the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services, it costs $15-25 per day to foster a child in Georgia. This cost covers the child’s food, clothing, shelter, and other necessities.
Conclusion
If you’re considering becoming a foster parent in Georgia, there are a few things you should know. First, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old and have a clean criminal record. You’ll also need to complete a home study, which is an assessment of your home and family life by a social worker.
Once you’ve completed the home study and been approved as a foster parent, you’ll be matched with a child or children in need of foster care.
