Yes, the State of Maryland requires all foster parent household caregivers to attend all 27 hours of Pre-Service training.

Yes, many of our foster families include a two-parent working household and even many single parent working households. We do require foster families to use licensed child care providers. There is a child care reimbursement that covers some of the cost of child care, and you also would need to use some of your monthly foster care stipend to cover the costs of child care.

Yes, the State of Maryland requires all foster parent household caregivers to sign a Discipline Policy in which the foster parent(s) agree not to use any corporal punishment with foster children. Corporal punishment (which is strictly prohibited) includes: physical hitting or any type of physical punishment inflicted in any manner upon the body. During the course of your Pre-service training, you will participate in an entire session devoted to learning acceptable discipline techniques that have been successful for many foster parents.

Yes. Foster parents receive a monthly allowance based on the type of care being provided; daycare reimbursement; mileage reimbursement; medical assistance; and respite care.

Yes. Social work staff will be available to support your fostering experience. They will be available to you by phone and will visit your home on a regular basis. Additionally, the Foster Parent Association is a good way to meet and get support from other foster and adoptive parents.