What are the requirements to be a Wisconsin foster parent?

To meet the unique needs of the children and teens referred to us, we welcome anyone from the 60 Wisconsin counties we serve to become a foster parent. If you meet our 10 basic requirements, like having a flexible schedule and passing a background check, we’d love to talk with you about the joys and challenges of fostering and help you explore whether becoming a foster parent is right for you. 

Whether you're young or older, married, single, empty nesters, working full-time with a flexible schedule, at-home, retired, or everything in between, there's a place for you to help a Wisconsin child, teen, or sibling group.

Basic requirements to be a CCR foster parent:

• Be a resident of Wisconsin 
• Be at least 25 years old
  (Your spouse or partner may be 21 or older)
• Have a flexible schedule
  (Time for weekly appointments and unplanned interruptions)
• Be financially stable
  (CCR foster parents may not be receiving housing assistance or food stamps)
• Pass a comprehensive background check
• Have available bedroom space
  (Each foster child must have their own bed and adequate personal space.)
• Be open to learning about childhood trauma and use trauma-informed parenting skills
  (We provide training and resources for success)
• Have healthy, stable personal relationships
  (And a support system of people you can rely on)
• Hold a valid driver’s license and auto insurance
• Be willing to work with birth families and a team of professionals
  (Foster care is a team effort.)

Time and Flexibility: What foster parenting requires

As you think about becoming a foster parent with CCR, one of the most important things to consider is your availability and flexibility. Children who have experienced trauma need consistent support and someone they can count on, especially outside of school hours, during holiday breaks, and over summer vacation.  

If you're working full-time, it is essential to plan for how you'll be available when a child in your care needs you most. Flexibility is not just helpful - it is necessary.

You'll need time in your schedule for things like:

• Visits with biological family members
• Therapy and other support services
• Weekly in-home visits with your case manager
• Medical appointments
• School meetings and educational support
• Unplanned interruptions or last-minute changes 

Please reach out and learn more about fostering, what to expect, and how to get started. When you're ready, we will guide you through every step of the licensing process. 

Your journey to making a difference starts here.

Excited to get our foster care license!