Foster Care FAQ

Who are the children in foster care?

Children range in ages from 0 to 17 years and often consist of sibling groups. No matter their circumstances, all children in foster care are victims of emotional abuse and often need special attention and care.

What is the role of the foster family?

Foster families open their hearts and homes to children who need them. They are entrusted to love, nurture and protect these children, knowing their time with them is only temporary. Foster parents are there in good times and bad, instilling in the children the skills they will need to face life’s challenges and opportunities. Families are also responsible for working cooperatively with all team participants including birth families.

What are the qualifications to provide foster care?

• Can be married, single or couples
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be financially stable
• Must be emotionally ready for parenting
• Must be in good physical health
• Must be free of serious DCS or criminal background
• Must be available to take in children on an emergency basis

Can I be a licensed foster parent if I have a medical marijuana card?

Click HERE to view the Arizona Department of Child Safety policy on medical marijuana cards.

How do I become a foster parent?

Please click here to find out how to become a foster parent.

How long does the foster care process take?

The foster care licensing process includes an information session, intake interviews, home study and a training program comprised of 15 hours of virtual classes taught by a member of the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) Learning and Development team, coupled with a series of twelve online, interactive videos.

There are additional trainings required for specialized foster care programs. This process typically takes four to six months to complete. AASK is always available to answer questions or assist with your learning.

What kind of financial support is available to help me care for the child?

Every month, you will receive a check from the state to help cover the costs of raising a child. This includes additional funds for clothing and diapers. Medicaid covers the children's medical expenses.

I've never done this before - will I have support?

Yes. An AASK Family Specialist will be assigned to work with you throughout the child's stay in your home. Through AASK, there are additional training sessions provided throughout the year at no cost, as well as a foster parent support group to get advice and assistance from experienced foster parents.

Kinship Care FAQ

Why does AASK believe in kinship care?

When a child can no longer live with their mother or father, another caring adult they already know and trust provides them with a greater sense of stability. Children in kinship care face less challenges and fewer behavioral issues than children placed with non-relatives. Kinship care is often the best type of placement for these children.

How can our family become a licensed kinship family?

Although kinship families must undergo many of the same requirements as unrelated foster and adoptive families, AASK has tailored its Licensed Kinship Care program to meet the unique needs of kinship families. Whenever possible, the AASK program is built around your specific and unique needs. Your family specialist will guide you through each step of the process, working around you and your family's busy schedule. Kinship families are referred to AASK by DCS; please contact us if you have questions.

Why is AASK's kinship program right for you?

AASK's kinship program was created by us to specifically help family members and caring adults who have unconditionally taken children into their homes. Our program is tailored to the unique needs of kinship families and is available in English and Spanish. Training for kinship consists of watching several online video courses and attending a live/virtual or in-person session with an AASK trainer. AASK offers the live/virtual or in- person training session at days and times to meet the needs of the kinship family.

Specialized Medical Foster Care FAQ

What are the qualifications to become a specialized medical foster parent?

In addition to the basic foster home licensing requirements, families who want to care for children with medically complex needs must have relevant experience, take additional specialized medical training, and cannot have employment or commitments that interfere with the foster parent’s ability to meet the foster child’s medical needs and schedule.

Is there additional training required for specialized medical foster parents?

Yes. In addition to the basic foster parent training course, specialized medical foster parents are required to attend 18 hours of advanced training on caring for children with medically complex needs. To renew a license to provide care for medically complex children, the foster parent must take at least 24 hours of training every two years with at least half of those hours focused on the unique care needs of medically complex children. All specialized medical foster parents need to be First Aid and CPR certified.

What kind of support will I receive from AASK as a specialized medical foster parent?

AASK's Specialized Medical Foster Care program consists of a team that supports the family through monthly visits and 24-hour emergency assistance. AASK also has a full- time Registered Nurse on staff to assist families with support, education and resources. The nurse is able to provide developmental assessments and assist in making referrals for needed services.