top of page
Writer's pictureIntercept Health TFC

5 Essential Resources for Foster Parents

There are many reasons why a child may be placed in foster care. Regardless of the reason, as a foster parent, you have every right to access the resources that will help you through this journey. Being a foster parent is a rewarding honor, but it can also be a daunting experience as you navigate the system and find the resources you need. 


Just as you’ve committed to providing the best possible environment for a child in their time of need, you should know there are resources dedicated to helping you on this journey. This article will help identify some of the resources available to you as you foster a child.


mother and child playing

  1. State and Local Resources

Many resources are available for foster parents, but resources may differ depending on where you live. Every state, including Virginia, has its own set of resources, programs, and services geared toward helping foster parents. Many states also have regional offices that help to serve this need. It’s important to research what’s available in your state. 


  1. Finance Assistance

Many foster parents are eligible to receive financial assistance to help cover some of the costs of caring for a child. It’s important to know the laws in your state and how to determine how much (if applicable) you may be eligible for. The Department of Health and Human Services can also help provide direction on what’s available in your state. 


  1. Education and Health Care

children walking in graduation caps and gowns

As a foster parent, the child you care for is entitled to a free public education and free health care. This includes free school meals and Medicaid. 


Many foster children also need access to mental health services as they deal with past trauma. Mental health services may also be available for your foster child, ranging from individual and family counseling to group therapy. 


Research the options for health care and education in your specific state, as not all state requirements are the same. 


  1. Foster Parent Support Groups

One of the best forms of support for many foster parents is the ability to talk directly with other foster parents. This path to foster parenting can be daunting enough, and it helps to know that you’re not on this path alone. Talking to others who understand what you’re dealing with and what you’re going through, can help maintain the mindset you need to stay on the path. Not to mention, foster parents can recommend and expand their resource knowledge to one another.


Active foster parents at Intercept Health are able to participate in our Virtual Foster Parent Support Group twice per month. It's a safe space for our parents to vent, ask questions, and build connections. Additionally, our offices host regular events, providing opportunities for our foster parents and the children in their care to establish lasting bonds.


woman speaking in a support group

  1. Online Resources for Foster Parents

Many online resources do a wonderful job of helping foster parents navigate necessary resources in their state. Some include:



Use these resources to get you closer to knowing what’s available to you.


Intercept Health

If you live in Virginia, Intercept Health is a great place to start your foster care journey. Once approved as a foster parent, we're dedicated to helping our foster parents access the resources that will assist them along the way. 


Through monthly foster parent training, 24/7 on-call hours, and dedicated staff support, we help our foster parents with challenging situations, as well as the strength and encouragement they need. Additionally, we provide our parents with access to state and local resources, help arrange respite care, and assist with monthly reimbursements.


If you feel you’re ready to begin the foster care journey, take our qualification quiz today and let the journey begin!

6 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page