The new year is the perfect time to start thinking about becoming a licensed foster and adoptive parent.
Many people make resolutions wanting to make a positive impact in the lives of others and the community. Becoming a foster and adoptive parent does just that.
With 470 children in custody, Stark County Job & Family Services urgently needs individuals like you, who have a deep desire to help children in our community. While becoming a licensed foster and adoptive parent is a big commitment, there is flexibility in how you can help. Additionally, the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY) has been working to improve the licensing processes, offering families a simpler path to becoming and staying licensed.
Foster and adoptive parents make a difference by providing support and stability during a challenging time in a child’s life. Children living in the foster care system are there through no fault of their own. They have experienced events that jeopardized their safety and wellbeing and are in need of a safe home and loving family. The role of a foster and adoptive parent includes, but is not limited to, providing a substitute family setting, offering a safe and stable environment, monitoring school attendance and progress, attending to medical and dental needs, and providing guidance with the adjustment process.