INDIANAPOLIS — With the number of kids in Indiana in foster care continuing to climb, an event was held Saturday for the community to learn more about being a foster parent.
There were more than 30,000 Indiana kids in the foster care program in 2018, according to Open Arms Christian Ministries.
As of January, there are just under 15,000 kids in foster care.
Over the years, the number of kids in foster care has been rising but the Department of Child Services says there are about 2,000 kids less right now than this time in 2018.
Those who are interested in becoming a foster parent must be licensed by DCS.
In order to receive a license, you must meet the following requirements:
- Must be at least 21 years of age
- Passing a criminal history and background check that includes a fingerprint-based national history
- Demonstrating financial stability
- Own or renting your own home that meets physical safety standards (e.g., fire extinguishers, adequate bedroom space, reliable transportation)
- Medical statements from a physician for all household members
- Successful completion of pre-service training requirements
- Successful completion of First Aid, CPR, and Universal Precautions training
- Positive personal reference statements
- Foster parents do not need to be married. They may be single or co-habitating. A live-in relationship with a significant other or same-sex partner should be established for at least one year to demonstrate stability.
- Home visits from the Regional Licensing Specialist
- Completing all required forms within the licensing packet
