FAQs • Anoka County, MN • CivicEngage

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Child Foster Care

1. Do I have to live in Anoka County?: Yes. For Anoka County to license you as a foster care provider, you must live in Anoka County. If you do not, you can check with the county that you live in.

2. Do I have to live in a house?: No. Apartments, condominiums, or mobile homes may be options.

5. How old do I need to be?: You must be 21 years or older to be a licensed child foster care provider.

7. Who pays for the child's medical expenses?: All medical and dental expenses are provided for the child through the county or private insurance.

8. Can a foster child share a bedroom with my child?: Yes. Children of the same sex may share a bedroom when appropriate. Each child should have his/her own bed.

9. How long do foster children stay in foster homes?: Foster care varies in length depending on the child and his/her family's circumstances. A child can stay a few days or several months to a year or longer.

10. Can I adopt a foster child?: There are circumstances in which a foster child could be free for adoption. However, many other factors are considered first.

11. Can we afford to take a child?: Providing care for children is expensive. The county provides financial support for foster families. The amount varies depending on the age and needs of the child. All medical and dental expenses are provided for the child through the county or private insurance. Foster care payments should at least cover expenses. Helping a person in need is a challenge - one that could change your life as well as the life of a child in your care.

12. Is my home okay?: Apartments, town homes, single-family homes - all are appropriate locations for foster care or adopted children. Most foster children share a bedroom with a same gender child close in age. They need to have their own beds; some need their own rooms. Most kids come with few possessions, but will need a dresser drawer and a bit of closet space. If they come to you without adequate clothing for the season, the children's social worker will assist in obtaining a clothing allowance.

13. Where do the kids come from?: Most of the children needing foster or adoptive families are in the social services system due to past abuse or neglect. They may have been traumatized, most are doing pretty well emotionally, others are really hurting, and may show that in their behavior.

14. What are their needs?: Kids, like adults, can be depressed, anxious, fearful, and angry. Some have medical or developmental problems. Many have delayed social skills or special school needs. You'll work closely with social services, the school, therapists and other professionals, and, in many cases, with the child's extended family.

15. How do I learn more about foster care?: Call your county's social services department. If you live in Anoka County, call 763-324-1230 for more information on child foster care.