AFC Answers Your Foster Care Questions
05/02/25
Deciding to foster or adopt is a big decision that requires careful thought and consideration. Here are some questions we get a lot from families who are considering this rewarding journey!
Q: I rent my home/ apartment, can I still foster?
A: Absolutely! Many foster families reside in rented apartments or homes, it is not necessary to own a home. As long as you have safe and adequate space for youth, you can become a licensed foster parent.
Q: I have a mental health diagnosis (depression, anxiety). Can I become licensed to foster?
A: You can still become a licensed foster parent! Prior to becoming licensed, your agency will ask for your physician to complete a physical stating that you are healthy enough to care for a child. If further treatment information is needed, the agency may also ask a mental health physician to complete paperwork.
Q: How long will it take to complete the licensing process?
A: The licensing process typically takes anywhere from 3-6 months to complete. This includes pre-service classes, applications and paperwork, a home study, and fire inspection. Once the paperwork is completed you have 180 days to finish the process, after this time period the paperwork expires and you will be asked to complete it again.
Q: How long will a child be in my home?
A: This is a tricky question, but one that we get often. Each children services case is unique and different. Depending on the situation and cause for CPS interference it could be days, weeks, months, or even years. The number one goal of foster care is reunification with their first family, it’s important to support the efforts and encourage their biological/primary parents if possible.
Q: Can I be a foster parent if I’m single?
A: Yes! Single individuals can become licensed foster parents. Agencies are seeking loving, caring, and compassionate individuals to foster children, your marriage status is irrelevant.
If you’re wondering whether fostering or adopting may be the right for you, reach out to Action for Children! Our Children Services Hub team is here to support you and answer your big (and little) questions! Call 614-224-0222 to or fill out our connect form to learn more!
Authors: Linnae Boyer and Jennifer Aquino, Family and Community Support Specialists at Action for Children
Action for Children’s Help Me Grow home visiting services are funded by the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. Action for Children is an affiliate of Healthy Families America. Learn more about Action for Children’s foster, adoptive, and kinship supports.
About Action for Children: Action for Children is the local child care resource and referral agency for central Ohio, and is committed to assuring quality early learning experiences for all children. Our services focus on transforming the lives of children by supporting the everyday heroes who most influence our children’s early growth; care givers, educators, parents, and guardians. Learn More.