Consider Becoming a Foster Parent During National Foster Care Month

By Rachel Frye | Posted on May 1, 2023

Wellpoint Care Network has a long history of providing foster care – we’ve been licensing and supporting safe, nurturing foster homes since 1984.

But, we can’t do what we do without you.

Almost anyone can become a foster parent. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do need to be committed to a child’s current and future needs. More than anything, we’re looking for people with love and patience to share (and, a sense of humor always helps).

We need individuals and families from all backgrounds, cultures and family structures to represent the diverse range of children who need a foster home.

-Today, there are about 8,000 Wisconsin children in foster care.

-In Milwaukee County alone, nearly 2,000 children are in foster care.

-Nearly 32% of children have been in foster care for more than two years.

-Currently, 68% of children in foster care are African American, while only about 30% of licensed Wellpoint Care foster parents are African American.

-In Wisconsin, the Coalition for Children, Youth & Families is trying to recruit more than 1,000 new foster families.

May is National Foster Care Month. During this month, we encourage you to consider becoming a foster parent.

As a foster parent, you will invest not only in children who need you, but also in your community. Your commitment could be just what a biological family needs to heal and reunite. And, if that’s not possible, you will still play an important role in providing stability as we work toward permanency.

General Requirements:

Attend a new-family information session.
Pass a criminal background and caregiver check.
Have no prior history of involvement with a child welfare agency due to an upheld accusation of child abuse and/or neglect.
Possess sufficient verifiable sources of income.
Meet certain safety requirements for the home and have homeowner’s or renter’s liability insurance.
Have bedroom space for a foster child that meets licensing standards.
Have vehicle liability insurance and a valid driver’s license if transporting a foster child.
Participate in professional training based on certification level.
Be willing and able to work with the child’s biological family.
Be willing to share experiences with other potential foster parents.
General foster parents (Level 2) must complete 9 hours of training prior to having a foster child placed. During the first two years of licensure, foster/adoptive parents must complete 33 hours of foundation training and 3 training hours that include information about trauma informed care.

We need you. It doesn’t matter your marital status, career or parenting experience. If you’re willing to care for a child who comes into your care, being a foster parent is right for you.