[kahunaz]

Hi to everyone,

Glad I found this board. I really hope it's as helpful as it looks. My wife and I have been together nearly 15 years...married almost 11. We've been thru all the infertility issues. So now we want to get liscenesd to be Foster parents. need any info possible.

We are of modest means and was wondering does the government help out on a monthly basis for the care, medical insurance???

I live in Illinois (northern) and was wondering where we can go for the classes.??..how long the process takes...

I feel realy stupid asking or imposing on you kind people for information...but my wife and I have a nice large home, are very dedicated people, loving and committed to whatever we set our minds too.

We love childern and some special needs are not a problem

Thanks and God Bless!

[leaabc123]

Well, you need to contact the children's services agency in your area. Usually there is an informational meeting for people interested in foster care where you can ask questions.

Each child will be elgible for a monthly stipend, to help with living expenses. The amount varies, depending on your location, the child's needs, and age. You should also be able to get mileage for doctor's appointments, and appointments related to foster care.
Foster Kids under 5 are automatically elgible for WIC, which pays for baby formula, or milk and eggs for older kids.
And all foster kids should be elgible for Medicaid, if they don't already have it when they arrive.
Some states provide clothing reimbursement, equipment reimbursement. You need to make sure that you find out what is paid for or reimbursable in your area.

However, you will find that you are pretty much spending more than you will get back when you factor in things like toys, trips, and activities.

The length of the process depends on your area, and how fast your worker is. We startedthe process in November of 2002, started our classes in summer of 2003 (we had to wait for saturday classes), and were certified in January this year. We got our first placement in June.