BECOME A FOSTER PARENT
Interested in becoming a foster parent? Let us give you some of our answers to the most asked questions about foster parenting.
Who are Foster Parents?
Foster parents are special people who recognize the special needs of children living in a troubled family. Through their investment of time, energy, love and guidance, foster parents can make a difference in the lives of the children and families in need. Individuals or couples can be licensed as foster parents. Foster parents receive financial reimbursement to meet the basic needs of the children. Children in the legal custody of the department may also be placed with relatives that can provide full-time care (kinship foster care), protection and nurture. Kinship foster parents may access the same services for children as non-relative foster parents.
What do Foster Parents Do?
  • Provide daily care, guidance and acceptance.
  • Model a healthy family lifestyle.
  • Assist with educational and medical needs.
  • Provide transportation to and from school and appointments.
  • Share information about the child's progress and needs with the department.
  • Promote and provide structure and appropriate and reasonable discipline  
    What is Required to Become a Foster Parent?
  • Complete prelicensure training through the department.
  • Complete application with a foster home licensing specialist.
  • Undergo criminal background check, fingerprinting and check of the Central Registry of Abuse and Neglect for all household members 18 years and older.
  • Provide copies of birth certificates, marriage licenses, divorce petitions and decrees, military discharge papers and other documents.
  • Provide three references from those who have known the prospective foster parent for at least three years.
  • Submit current medical reports for all family members in the home.
  • Pass fire and health department inspections of the home.
    Rewards of Foster Parenting
    Be a positive influence in the life of a child. Make a difference in families and communities. Share in the growth of a child. Help a child build a foundation on which to be successful in the community. Contribute to the lives of children and families with a pay off for years to come.
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    Keith A. Frazier, Pickens County Director,
    212 McDaniel Avenue, PO Box 158, Pickens, SC 29671-0158
    (864) 898-5810 / (864) 898-5819 (fax)