All children deserve to grow up in caring and supportive homes. When children are unable to live with their birth families, foster families can provide the nurturing so important for healthy child development. Single persons or couples, with or without children, can apply to become a foster parent. Foster families are a unique type of family as they welcome children into their families on a temporary basis. How temporary is different for each child and each situation. Some children are placed in a foster family for under six months, while others may be placed indefinitely. Fostering a child can be a fantastic experience; however, it is not for every family or individual.
It is a good idea to take the time to relax and maintain your emotional, mental and physical wellness for the journey ahead. The fostering process can take time to finalize and includes classes, paperwork and home visits with a social worker. Once you are a foster parent, you might experience unique challenges that require expert advice; fortunately, Manitoba has resources for parents of all kinds.
Interested in becoming a foster parent?
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent, speak to someone about the fostering process and find out what kinds of supports are available. You can contact a Child & Family Services agency at 1-888-834-9767 or the Manitoba Foster Family Network at 1-866-458-5650 for more information.
- Manitoba Child and Family Services Agencies
- How to Become a Foster Parent
- Becoming a Foster Parent: Frequently Asked Questions
Becoming a foster parent is an important commitment, but virtually all foster parents say the rewards are great. Click on this link for the five steps to becoming a licensed foster parent in Manitoba. - The Manitoba Foster Family Network
The Manitoba Foster Family Network provides training and support to enhance the lives of foster families.