Have questions about becoming a foster parent?
We have answers.
So you’re thinking about becoming a foster parent.
You’ve already done your research, looked up foster parent requirements, and you may have questions.
The good news? We love answering your questions!
If you live in a state served by Mentor Foster Care, you can get expert answers to questions unique to you and your life.
For example:
“How can I foster with the number of hours I work each day?”
“My relatives are willing to help provide care, is that okay?”
“Even with the stipend, can I personally afford to be a foster parent?”
Whatever questions you have, no question is too big or too small.
Talk to a Foster Care Expert, Commitment-Free
What to expect
After I fill out the form, when will I hear from you?
If you live in a state served by Mentor Foster Care, within two business days, a team member will text you, setting up a time to connect.
How long is the phone call?
The phone call lasts approximately 30 - 45 minutes.What will we talk about?
First and foremost, you’ll get your questions answered! No matter what is on your mind, this is the time to get advice from a foster care expert.Then, we’ll talk through the application process and requirements. From your lifestyle to your job, your income to your home, this is where you’ll get a detailed understanding of how fostering fits into your life.
What if I change my mind, or decide I don’t want to foster?
Chatting with a foster care expert is completely commitment-free! Consider this your opportunity to see if taking the next step is right for you.Reserve Your Slot Now
Simply fill out the form to secure your spot talking with a foster care expert!
Appointments are currently available for residents of Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina.
What if I’m worried about being a good foster parent?
If you have any fears or uncertainties, it’s okay! We’re here to talk through those too.
Having questions about whether fostering is for you, is completely normal. Uncertainties mean you’re taking the decision seriously – which is exactly what will make you a great foster parent.
As Erin Page-Brown, Former Foster Parent, Evaluation Specialist shares,
I cannot explain or describe how worth it is, because it truly is a feeling. It's not describable. But I really believe that if you have a heart for this, if you have a heart to help, that this will be such an impactful experience for you. And it will change your life for the better.”
Hear more of Erin’s insights in the video at the bottom of this page.
What are the next steps?
During your phone call with a foster care expert, we’ll talk through foster parent requirements as they relate to your life. From there, here’s an overview of what to expect:
- Fill out an application: After confirming you meet qualifications, you’ll fill out an application. If you have any questions while doing so, we’re here to help every step of the way!
- Home walk through: Once your application has been submitted, someone will come to walk through your home and ensure it meets requirements.
- Preservice sessions: After that, you’ll have preservice sessions. These are skill development meetings where you’ll learn everything you need to know about becoming a foster parent.
- Matching process: Then, you’ll go through a matching process, where you get to choose your preferences for the child (or children) who come into your home.
What kind of support will I get once I become a foster parent?
Rest assured, support is available to you throughout the foster parenting journey!
As you go through the process of becoming a foster parent, a Family Evaluation Evaluation Specialist will work with you through the entire process, helping you learn more about foster care and what it entails.
Amy Kelley, Family Evaluation Specialist in Alabama, explains how close she has become with her foster parents,
“I have absolutely fallen in love with my foster parents. They are my family. There is not a single foster parent that I have that I don't have a close relationship with.”
Once you have a child (or children) in your home, a member of our team will come to your house weekly to provide support to both you and the child in your care. And, you will always have 24-hour access to support in case of an emergency.
Any other questions?
That’s what we’re here for! Simply fill out the form to get in touch – we can’t wait to speak with you.
What are the next steps?
During your phone call with a foster care expert, we’ll talk through foster parent requirements as they relate to your life. From there, here’s an overview of what to expect to continue your foster care journey:
- Fill out an application: After confirming you meet qualifications, you’ll fill out an application. If you have any questions while doing so, we’re here to help every step of the way!
- Home walk through: Once your application has been submitted, someone will come to walk through your home and ensure it meets requirements.
- Preservice sessions: After that, you’ll have preservice sessions. These are skill development meetings where you’ll learn everything you need to know about becoming a foster parent.
- Matching process: Then, you’ll go through a matching process, where you get to choose your preferences for the child (or children) you welcome into your home.
What kind of support will I get once I become a foster parent?
Rest assured, support is available to you throughout the foster parenting journey!
As you go through the process of becoming a foster parent, a Family Development Evaluation Specialist will work with you through the entire process, helping you learn more about foster care and what it entails.
Amy Kelley, Family Development Evaluation Specialist in Alabama, explains how close she has become with her foster parents,
“I have absolutely fallen in love with my foster parents. They are my family. There is not a single foster parent that I have that I don't have a close relationship with.”
Once you welcome a child (or children) in your home, a member of our team will come to your house and provide support to both you and the child in your care. And, you will always have 24-hour support in case of emergency.
What states is Mentor Foster Care in?
Mentor Foster Care can help you become a foster parent in the following states:
Alabama
Georgia
Indiana
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Jersey
Ohio
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Mentor Foster Care, a part of the Sevita family, is a leading provider of home and community-based specialty health care.
What if Mentor Foster Care isn’t in my state?
There are plenty of ways you can make a difference in the lives of others, regardless of what state you’re in.
While we may not currently offer services for children in your location, we do have host home services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
In this program, you can open your heart and home to an adult with intellectual and developmental disabilities, making it possible for them to thrive in the community.
Click here to learn more about host homes and the states in which this program is offered.
Any other questions?
That’s what we’re here for! Simply fill out the form to get in touch – we can’t wait to speak with you.
Advice from a Foster Parent Who's Been There
For more insights from a foster parent who’s been there, watch this video with insights from Erin Paige Brown.
A former adoptive and foster parent to over 25 children, Erin shares her answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a foster parent.