[KERAANN]

hi,
I am interested in becoming a foster parent, but I have some questions. Any help or advice is appreciated! I live in Pennsylvania (Scranton area).
I am single, 25 years old, I do not have children of my own. To become a foster parent, do I need to have a driver's license or car? I do not drive, so I was not sure if it would be a problem, I am still able to get anywhere I may need to go, if not by friend or family, by bus or taxi.
I currently work full time, but if I become a foster parent I prefer to be at home, is there a policy on job requirements?
Also, are there any rules or policies regarding pets?
Any other advice would be great!
Feel free to also contact me in Email!

Thanks!
Kera

[MrsGroves1]

Hello
we are going thru the f/a training and my have some advice for you. First off I don't believe that not having a drivers license will keep you from fostering. Second, when fostering a child you will be required to provide for that child so having a job is almost a must. There are subsidies BUT sometimes the money doesn't come in for awhile so you would need money on hand until it arrived, not only that but the money that one does get is not much, depending on the need of the child. typically 14- 20 dollars a day You would also have to think about where this child(ren) would sleep. The Fp is responsible for suppling a room, bed, linens, so on and so forth. Third, your concern with pets, you need not worry they will ask if you have papers on your pet whether the pet is current on all shots and how the pet interacts with people/ kids. They may even suggest that if a child was allergic what would you do?
I hope this helps
Feel free ask more questions if they arise.

[DianeS]

MrsGroves1 is right. While the money the foster parent is given is supposed to be enough to cover the child's expenses, it is certainly not enough to cover the foster parent's expenses too - and sometimes its not even enough to cover the child's. You will still need to have your own income to cover your own expenses and any expenses the child causes that the state doesn't cover.

Good luck!

[mom to 3]

While it may vary depending upon where you live and what services the agency can provide through volunteers, here they like you to ensure that you can provide transportation to and from Dr. appts., access visits etc. If you can provide that without a car or driving, then it shouldn't be a hurdle.
Secondly, I believe that you need to ensure that you have a steady income and can provide for any children. The subsidy that is provided for the child is not to be considered income but to help with the cost of nutritious food, clothes, diapers, personal items, any activities or games and equipment. Sometimes placements are short-term and you cannot depend on the subsidy for your sole income. Good Luck.