We’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about Wisconsin foster care and provided honest answers to help you explore becoming a Wisconsin foster parent.
Yes. There is a severe shortage of foster homes across Wisconsin, and children are referred to CCR every day. We often don’t have enough homes available—especially for sibling groups and teens—so children may have to wait for placement.
Because referrals can come from any county, we need foster parents throughout the entire state. No matter where you live, your home is needed.
See the 60+ Wisconsin county locations we serve.
Yes. If you are currently licensed with another agency, you can transfer to CCR. The process typically takes less than 6 weeks, and our team will guide you through each step.
CCR is built around supporting foster parents so they can succeed.
We provide 24/7 support, weekly in-home visits, and experienced case managers who stay long-term—our team averages 17 years of employment. That consistency means better communication, stronger relationships, and more reliable support for both you and the children in your care.
Listen to our podcast: Choosing a foster agency.
Yes, single foster parents are welcome at CCR. What matters most is having a flexible schedule and a reliable support system - family, friends, or others you can lean on when needed. Many single foster parents successfully care for children of all ages with the right support in place.
Read more about Being a Single Foster Parent
Yes. Foster parents can choose their preferred age range.
If you are hoping to foster younger children, we ask that you remain open to a broader range (such as 0–10) and to sibling groups, since that is where the need is greatest.
Read more about Choosing the Age of Foster Children.
Parenting children who have experienced trauma can be challenging.
You may see big emotions, difficult behaviors, or trust issues as a result of past experiences. Traditional parenting approaches often don’t work.
You won’t do this alone. CCR provides 24/7 support and weekly in-home visits to help you navigate challenges and build trust with the child in your care.
There is NO cost to become a Wisconsin foster parent.
Yes, many of our foster parents work full-time.
However, fostering requires flexibility. You should plan for 2–3 appointments each week, along with occasional unexpected schedule changes. Foster children often need additional supervision and support, and they may not be left alone at home.
Read more about working full-time.
The licensing process typically takes about 100 days. Our team will guide you step by step and provide support throughout the process.
Read our blog How Long Does it Take to Get a Foster License.
Foster parents receive a monthly payment called a stipend. The amount is based on a child's age and needs. Please read our blog: How Much Are Foster Parents Paid.
Respite care gives foster parents a break. It can be a few hours, a weekend, or longer when needed. Taking breaks is an important part of sustaining foster parenting, and CCR helps coordinate respite support when you need it.
Read more about respite care.
Foster children will attend your local public school. We are happy to discuss details with you if you wish for them to attend a school of choice. Homeschooling is not allowed.
Foster parents are part of a team. This typically involves contact with the family during parent-child visitations, school meetings and events, court hearings, and many other instances.
Sometimes. The primary goal of foster care is reunification with the child’s biological family. If parental rights are terminated and a child becomes eligible for adoption, foster parents may be considered as an adoptive resource.
Listen to our podcast: Can I adopt from foster care?
All Wisconsin foster children are issued a Medical Assistance card at the time of placement. This covers medical care, therapy, dental, vision, and prescriptions. Foster parents are not responsible for these expenses.
No. You do not need to own your home to become a foster parent.
Rentals of all types are acceptable. What matters most is that your home is safe, stable, and has enough space to welcome a child.
Keep in mind that our foster parents may not rely on Government-assisted housing.
Absolutely. Teens are one of the greatest areas of need, and we never have enough homes available for them.
Many people hesitate to foster teens because of common myths, but with the right support, fostering a teen can be incredibly meaningful. Many CCR foster parents who initially preferred younger children later choose to work with teens and find it deeply rewarding.
Any adult in the home who will be involved in caregiving must be included in the licensing process.
All adults living in the home should be willing to support and participate in caring for foster children, even if they are not the primary caregiver.
Yes. Foster families are encouraged to include children in family activities, such as vacations.
Both domestic and international travel may be allowed, depending on the situation. Our team will guide you through any approvals needed.
Yes. Many foster families have pets.
Pets must be up to date on vaccinations, and we’ll review temperament to ensure a safe environment for children. In many cases, pets can be a positive and comforting part of a child’s experience.
CCR is proud to be the only Wisconsin agency providing weekly in-home support visits. These visits are designed to support both you and the child, help navigate challenges, and ensure you always have consistent, hands-on guidance.
Possibly. A background check and fingerprinting are required, but having a criminal history does not automatically disqualify you.
Many misdemeanors and even some felonies may still allow you to become licensed, depending on the circumstances. If you’re unsure, we encourage you to reach out—we’re happy to talk through your situation confidentially.
Read more about background checks.
No. CCR does not license homes for kinship care or child-specific placements.
Yes. However, foster parents must still have flexibility in their schedules. Children in foster care often have additional appointments and needs, and you’ll need to be available before and after school.
Yes. Wisconsin requires that all firearms be unloaded, locked, and stored in a way that is not accessible to children. We’ll walk you through the specific requirements during the licensing process.
No. CCR foster parents are not permitted to operate an in-home daycare. Wisconsin does not allow dual-licensing.
Yes. This is called the Foster Homes Liability Insurance Program. The program may cover certain property damage or personal injury caused by a foster child.
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