FAQ’s

Who can be a foster parent?

Colorado is committed to inclusion and has no restrictions on who can foster based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or marital status. Foster parents must be able to use sound judgment like a prudent parent and demonstrate a responsible, stable, and emotionally mature environment.

• • You can be single, married or have a domestic partner.

• • You can own or rent a home, condo or apartment of any size, but you must have room for a child.

• • You can work inside or outside the home. Couples with both partners working outside the home are also eligible to be foster parents.

• • You must be at least 21 years of age.

• • You must have sufficient income to support your family.

• • You must be able to physically care for a child or youth.

• • You must pass child abuse, criminal background, and Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) checks required by state and federal laws.

• • You must be able to work with a treatment team and be willing to attend ongoing training.

Who are the youth in foster care?

When it comes to foster children, one size does not fit all. Most youth enter foster care due to abuse, neglect or other family challenges. They come from diverse ethnic and cultural populations and are generally birth to 18 years of age (sometimes teens stay in foster care after their 18th birthday). They may have special medical, physical, developmental, psychological and emotional needs, low self-esteem, poor hygiene or poor academic performance.  The child may belong to a sibling group or be an only child.

Are Foster Families paid to foster a child?

Foster Families receive a monthly reimbursement to offset the costs of providing food, shelter, clothing, and other related expenses. The rate varies and may depend upon the age of the child and the level of care they need. The Foster Parent is not expected to pay for medical or dental care. These expenses are generally covered by Medicaid.

How long are children in foster care?

A child or youth may be in foster care for one night, several months, or, in some cases, several years. Our ultimate goal is the reunification of the child with their family. The time spent in foster care is dependent upon each parent’s situation and their ability to engage in services to keep the children or youth safe so that they can be reunited. Children may leave foster care to live with a relative or another adult with whom they have a significant relationship. Adoption of the child may also be a possibility. 

Is there a limit to how many youth I can foster and/or have in my home?

Colorado rules allow up to four children or youth in foster care to live in a foster home at one time. There can be no more than eight children, including the foster parents’ biological children, living in the home. Space requirements, the foster family’s preference, the home study, and funding sources are all considered when determining how many children can live in the home.

What kind of help and support will I get?

You will receive all the trainings required that will give you the skills to be a great foster parent and provide an excellent experience for your foster children.  We will provide regular home visits with a member of our team to ensure all needs are being met for both you and the child.

Can I choose the child I want to foster?

Although you will not be able to specifically choose the child you foster, you are able to choose the age, gender, and other characteristics such as a medically fragile or child with Intellectual or developmental disabilities. Placements are made with foster families based on the compatibility of the child’s needs and the skills and resources of the foster parent. The Overture Placement Supervisor will discuss and review a child’s needs and supports with the foster family to ensure the right fit prior to placement. Foster parents have the final say in deciding whether to accept or decline the placement of a foster child in their home.

How long does it take to become a foster parent?

The time it takes to become a foster parent varies for everyone but typically it takes 2-3 months.  You can expect to have several home visits and interviews, a home study, a home inspection, and various background checks along with fingerprinting.

Are you ready to start the journey in making a difference in a child’s life?