Foster Parent Classes Begin in March

28^th Circuit Children’s Division announces the beginning of foster parent training classes this March.  Foster Parents provide a temporary placement for youth who are in need of a safe environment to live.  It is important to keep children connected to their schools and communities to provide them with the sense of continued support and continuity of service.   There are a few requirements to becoming a foster parent.  Foster parents must be 21 years of age, submit to background checks for all household members age 17 and over, have adequate space and finances to accommodate additional children.  The state provides each child with annual clothing allowances, Missouri Medicaid to address the child’s medical, dental, and vision needs.   Foster parents also receive a monthly maintenance allowance to assist with the cost of care.    Foster parents must complete 27 hours of Pre-Service training, along with a home study process.  Fostering provides many wonderful experiences for both child and caregiver.  If you would like to learn more about the process of fostering, please contact your local children's Division office.  For Barton/Dade counties, please contact Tiffany Price at 417-682-3531.  For Cedar/Vernon Counties, please contact Natalie Rojas-Fast at 417-276-5113.