 | Jessica Dutton works to help educate and inform possible foster parents for TFI Family Services in Pittsburg. The agency will host a new series of PSP-MAPP classes for those interested in becoming foster parents. Classes start March 6th, 6pm-9pm at 3101 N. Michigan, Pittsburg and will run for 10 weeks, once a week.
For more information on becoming a foster or adoptive parent, please contact TFI Family Services, Inc. Toll Free 1-800-279-9914 or visit us online at www.tfifamilyservices.org. |
Community Events
2012-02-27 16:42:38
The need for foster homes in Southeast
Q: Recently I heard information about the overwhelming need for foster homes in Southeast Kansas. Is there truly an emergent need?
A: Now more than ever, there is an overwhelming shortage of foster and adoptive parents. This raises concerns, when trying to place a child in their home county.
When there is a child who is removed from their home for their safety, the need arises for foster homes within their own community. These children are placed out of home, when there has been a decision made by the court. The child at that time is found to be a child in need of care. This decision is based on the facts alleged by law enforcement and the local SRS. As of February 14, 2012, there are 84 children from Crawford County living in out of home placement. Out of these, only 31 are placed within Crawford County. The others are away from their family, school, and friends. In Crawford County, the greatest need for local foster families is for teenagers, sibling groups, and children with special needs.
What are the qualifications for a resource foster care or adoptive parent?
•Be 21 years or older and have a
permanent residence
•Have an outside source of
income
•Have housing space to provide a
separate bed for each foster
child
•Complete PSP – MAPP
(Partnering for Safety and
Permanence Model Approach to
Partnership in Parenting)
training. This is a free, 10
week course designed to help
you make an informed decision
about becoming a resource
parent
•Provide three personal
references
•Pass the Kansas Bureau of
Investigation and Child Abuse
Registry background checks.
•Your home will need to
pass inspection by the Kansas
Department of Health and
Environment to ensure your
home is safe and suitable for
children
Parenting experience is not required. Becoming a resource foster parent, you are giving an opportunity for children to stay closer to the community they know.
