TREATMENT FOSTER PARENT REQUIREMENTS/ ADMISSIONS PROCEDURES

Thank you for your interest in our Foster Parent Program. You will find it to be an enriching, rewarding, cultural, and spiritual experience. Final certification can not take place until all areas are in compliance. All documents can be submitted in person or by mail to SHERIDAN PATTERSON CENTER For Holistic Family Services, Special Paths, Child Placement Academy.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION: (Applicants must be at least 23 years of age)
 

1. Applications: must be completed and returned to the agency. Upon receipt an interview will be scheduled.
2. Autobiographical Sketch: must be completed by each individual applicant.
3. Physical Examination & TB Test: must complete the SPC Physical Examination Form. The physical must include a TB Test and the results of this test. Biennial examinations are required, unless there are ongoing problems, e.g. hypertension, diabetes, heart problems, etc. of the foster parent is over the age of 60. If this is your situation, annual physicals are required.
4. Income Verification: a copy of your most recent W-2 Form and two consecutive pay stubs, or a copy of your Social Security Pension, or disability check is required documentation.
5. Home or Apartment Insurance Verification: a copy of your current home or apartment insurance policy is required for documentation.
6. Criminal Record Checks: Maryland requires that any adult who works with children must have a Criminal Background Check from the State Police, FBI and/or local authorities. Therefore, the agency requests a release of information form signed by you so this information may be obtained. Record checks must be done on any family member over 18 years of age.
7. Home Inspection:  SPC will conduct 2 home inspections of your home to ensure that your home meets state regulations and accommodations for a foster child.
8. Health Department Inspection: Maryland State requires that any adult who works with children must have an annual home inspection by the local health department.
9. Fire Department Inspection: Inspection is contingent on applicant’s residential jurisdiction requirements.
10. References: SPC will provide reference forms. A total of (3) references are required, only (1) family member may give a reference, an employer and a personal friend or neighbor.
11. School Reference: (if applicable) GFI will provide these references for schools for school age children in the homes of prospective foster parents.
12. Signed Consents: All consents requesting your signature must be submitted prior to child placement.
13. Confidentiality Statements: Any and all information shared with you about a foster child must be kept confidential and not discussed with anyone other than a SPC clinical staff. All therapeutic foster parents are required to sign and submit this statement.
14. Support Group Meeting Hours: We require (16) sixteen hours.
15. Foster Parent In-Service Training Hours: We require (32) thirty-two hours.

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