Smiling Boy

Janine, Juneau County

The rewards are worth the struggles. I can't imagine not being a foster parent.

Home / Qualify to be a Foster Parent in Wisconsin

Qualify to be a Foster Parent in Wisconsin

What are the foster parent requirements in Wisconsin?

Our foster parents and the youth and kids we serve come from all backgrounds and counties across Wisconsin. We must have a diverse pool of foster parents to meet their needs. There is a place for everyone who wants to foster. Whether you are young or older, single, married, partnered, working, retired, stay-at-home, renting, or a homeowner, we welcome you to explore becoming a foster parent with us. If you can advocate fiercely and love generously, you could be the perfect fit for a child in need.

Wisconsin foster care qualifications for new foster parents

  • Resident of Wisconsin
  • 25 years or older 
  • Financial stability (be free from any housing assistance or food stamps)
  • A favorable background check
  • Available bedroom space for foster children 
  • Healthy, stable relationships and a support system of people you can count on
  • Availability to attend scheduled appointments 
  • Willingness to learn about childhood trauma and use trauma-informed parenting skills
  • Valid driver's license and auto insurance
  • Willingness to work with the children's biological family and a professional support team

A flexible schedule is needed to meet the needs of foster children.

As you consider fostering, please think about who will supervise foster children outside of school hours, during summer vacations, and holiday breaks. While family, friends, daycare, and community programs are good options, our experience tells us that children heal and grow best when a parent is available. Some flexibility will be needed to meet any of the following:

  • Biological family visits
  • Therapy/Support services
  • Weekly in-home case manager support visits
  • Medical appointments
  • School appointments
  • Unplanned interruptions

We encourage you to speak with our foster parent advisor, Jane, who has personal fostering experience. Jane can walk you through how to get started, the steps involved, the support you will receive, and most importantly, who the children are we serve. If you reside in one of the 60 Wisconsin county locations we serve, please contact Us. 

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