With over 300 children in the care of Scioto County Children Service, now more than ever the county is in need of loving, stable foster homes. Most children in Scioto County’s care have experienced trauma through abuse, neglect, or their family’s inability to provide for them due to unforeseen circumstances. Foster care provides the displaced children with stable environments where their needs are met. The children of Scioto County deserve to be supported and cared for by their community, so their dreams of a safe place are fulfilled.

 

Requirements to become a foster parent in the State of Ohio:

• You must be at least 18 years old.

• At least one person in your home must be able to read, write and speak English, or be able to communicate effectively with both the child and the agency that placed the child in your home.

• You may be single or married.

• Your household must have enough income to meet the basic needs of the child and to make timely payment of shelter costs.

• You must be free of any physical, emotional or mental conditions that could endanger the child or seriously impair your ability to care for the child.

• A licensed physician, physician’s assistant, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse practitioner or certified nurse-midwife must complete and sign a medical statement for you and each member of your household. You can find the required form here . 

• Everyone over 18 living in your house must never have been convicted of – or entered guilty pleas for – any offenses defined in Ohio Revised Code section 5103.0319. Some exclusions may be found in Ohio Administrative Code rule 5101:2-7-02 .

• A certified state fire safety inspector or the state fire marshal’s office must inspect your home and certify that it is free of hazardous conditions.

• You must complete all required pre-placement and continuing training. 

 

You can choose to open your home for short-term or long-term care. Foster parents receive a daily per diem to aid in supporting the children’s basic and/or special needs. Some children may eventually become adoptable. Through Scioto County Children Services, you can become a foster parent and/or a foster-to-adopt parent. Becoming licensed may take up to 6 months due to extensive home visits and training.

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If you have ever considered becoming a foster parent in Scioto County, call to inquire at 740-456-4164. Ask to speak with Emma Coldiron, Patricia Craft, or Lindsey Austin.