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Information for Current Foster Parents

Foster Care

 

HELPFUL RESOURCES

  • Caregiver Core Training is required for each foster family prior to licensing. One caregiver must participate in the entire 24-hour training. In two-parent households, we encourage both caregivers to attend if possible.

  • If you're not able to make it to CCT in-person, or if you prefer to take the training at your own pace, we encourage you to participate in the online option.

  • Orientation is required for all foster families prior to licensing. Check this link to view our upcoming orientations, and let us know if you're available to attend.

  • If you're not able to make it to one of Youthnet's in-person orientations, DCYF offers an online option. Please send a copy of your certificate to your Youthnet licensor.

  • All foster parents (and individuals living in the home over age 16) are required to train in CPR/First Aid. Your training must include an in-person portion for CPR, and must cover infant, child, and adult CPR. Keep the Beat offers free classes to foster parents, and also meets the requirement for HIV/Blood Borne Pathogens training.

  • Fostering Together provides a variety of resources for foster parents. We encourage you to browse their website for resources, trainings, and support groups.

  • The DCYF (formerly DSHS) contact directory is a great way to track down information for state social workers and supervisors.

  • Looking for free/low-cost kids activities in Whatcom? Whatcom Kid Insider is an incredible resource!

  • Looking for free/low-cost kids activities in Skagit? Skagit Kid Insider is an incredible resource!

EMERGENCY CONTACTS

  • Intake Hotline: 1-866-ENDHARM (1-866-363-4276)

    For reports of suspected abuse or neglect

  • Youthnet Emergency On-Call Support: (360) 421-2049

    Traditional Foster Care Program

  • Youthnet Emergency On-Call Support: (360) 202-7765

    Therapeutic Foster Care Program

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

All foster parents are required to participate in relevant training each year.  This is a great opportunity to gain parenting skills, better understand the effects of trauma, and meet other local foster parents.  Here are some suggestions that might fit your training plan.  As a reminder, if you wish to participate in a training that doesn't fit your training plan, please send us an email prior to signing up to make sure you will receive credit.  Alliance provides many local and online trainings specific to foster care.  Sign up to receive email updates about upcoming trainings in your area.

FORMS FOR CURRENT FOSTER PARENTS

Traditional Foster Care Program

Therapeutic Foster Care Program

BACKGROUND FORMS

If you're planning to have a new household member over the age of 16 (for any length of time), a visitor for more than 7 days, or if you're planning to hire a nanny (caring for your children frequently, at least once a week), please submit these forms and a copy of their driver's license to your Youthnet licensor.  These forms must be submitted immediately, and foster children cannot be left unsupervised with these individuals until their background clearance is received.  Background clearances usually take 1-3 months to process.

Household members over 18 (and household members over 16 who will be providing babysitting) and nannies will also need to provide a copy of their driver's license, auto insurance, TB test, and current CPR/First Aid training.

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