Here you’ll find answers to common questions about our services, how to get involved, and support options available for foster youth and families throughout Shasta, Tehama, and Butte Counties. Whether you’re a prospective foster parent, a social worker seeking information for a client, or a community member looking to learn more, we hope this page helps clarify key topics and guide you to the right next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Those families in Butte, Shasta, and Tehama counties that are willing to be responsible for the care of a foster child, willing to become part of our team and able to meet Community Care Licensing requirements.
It is a difficult and complex task. It involves not only the child but also being involved with us, birth parents, your family, the community and the courts regarding the care of the child.
Yes. You will be expected to provide physical and emotional care; to develop awareness and sensitivity to a variety of children; to be flexible and patient in allowing the children to grow; to work cooperatively with the agency and other case related individuals.
Yes, a birth parent remains a part of a child’s life no matter what happened. We’re not here to judge parents. You will be expected to accept the birth parents, understand their behavior, and be sensitive to the children’s feelings for and attachments to their birth parents.
“Co-parenting” or parenting as part of a team is very different than raising a child on your own and it takes a special commitment to cooperate with others.
You can remain open and receptive to new ideas. The social work staff is a good resource for you.
Taking a child into your home is a big responsibility. If you begin to feel overwhelmed by the experience of fostering, or feel it’s not right for you, talk to us. If you decide to quit foster care, give us some time to prepare the child for a move.
The goal for all of the children in our care is “permanency”, and if an opportunity arises with a natural parent, a relative, or an adoptive home, then the child will leave your care and be placed permanently elsewhere.
Yes. Work closely with your Social Worker so you can better understand the patterns of behavior you are most likely to see.
You can find a copy of our strategic plan at either our Redding or Chico office.
Didn’t find the answer you were looking for? We’re here to help! Contact us.
How Can We Support You?
If you have questions about foster care services, becoming a foster parent, or ways you can support Youth & Family Programs, we would love to hear from you.