Foster Parents Desperately Needed

by Leanna Lehman -- Have you ever thought about being a foster parent? Even if you have not, there is no time like right now to give a home to a local child in need. Nevada, like most other states, is facing a critical shortage of foster care families. The need for safe, secure, and loving homes far exceeds availability.  As a result, officials are often unable to keep siblings in the same household, school, or community. In Churchill and several other counties, many displaced children are relocated to Las Vegas group facilities until space becomes available -- that is if one does. There are many misconceptions about becoming a foster parent. The Department of Children and Family Services, DCFS, is encouraging local residents to open up their homes to offer shelter and care to local children at their most vulnerable times. 8 Common Myths about becoming a Foster Parent:

1. I have to be married to be a foster care parent: On the contrary, many singles and unmarried couples are foster parents.
2. I need to have a lot of money: As long as you can prove you can meet your financial obligations independent of State reimbursement, you are eligible to become a foster parent. Reimbursement for expenses related to the child’s care will be covered during the pre-service training.
3. I must have a private room for a foster child: Rooms can be shared as long as the other children in the room are of the same gender and the child has his or her own bed and space for clothes and personal items.
4. I have an arrest record and won't qualify: Another key fact is that you are not automatically disqualified from licensing if you have an arrest record. All convictions are handled on a case by case basis with crimes against children being the only non-licensable offenses.
5. As a foster parent, I will have to appear in court: As a foster parent, you will be an integral part of the child’s care team. If you choose not to go to court, you can communicate with the court in writing and through the child’s caseworker.
6. I will have no say in accepting a child into my home: The selection process includes matching the child’s individual needs to the potential foster home. The decision to place the child is made jointly with you and the agency. The child’s age, sex, and needs are taken into account, particularly if there are other children in the home and a room may be shared.
7. I may not own a firearm: All weapons/firearms must be locked in a safe separate from ammunition that must also be locked up, but are not prohibited.
8. I am not allowed pets: As long as pets are in good health, good-natured, and up-to-date on vaccinations, they are permitted in the home.

In a proclamation of gratitude for the compassionate and profound contributions made by foster families in America, President Trump designated last month as National Foster Care Month. Join the many families that are making a difference by adding your name to the list of modern-day heroes that quietly secure the hope of many children and youth while paving the way of our future. DCFS will be happy to visit with anyone interest in the process and answer any questions about becoming a foster parent. http://dcfs.nv.gov/Programs/CWS/Foster_Care/FosterCare/   Support local, independent news – contribute to The Fallon Post, your non-profit (501c3) online news source for all things Fallon. Never miss the local news -- read more on The Fallon Post home page.