Support & Assistance for Foster Parents

Compensation
Foster parents receive a daily rate for providing care for children.  The rate is determined by the child’s age and level of supervision needed.  Children with special needs are eligible for an increased rate. 

Many children get an initial clothing allowance when they first come into care.  Additional clothing allowances are received in March, August and November.  The clothing allowance is based on a child’s age.  

Rate sheets are provided to certified foster families.

Medical Needs
All of the children who enter foster care are covered under New York State Medicaid.  Medicaid will pay for the children’s medical, dental, counseling and other health related expenses.  The child’s caseworker can help foster parents find a provider who takes Medicaid. 

Pre-Service Training
Foster parents must complete the Group Preparation & Selection/Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (GPSII/MAPP) training.  This free training is held twice a year (in spring and fall) and lasts 10 weeks.  Sessions are held one night a week from 6pm to 9pm. 

On-Going Training and Support
Each foster parent is required to attend four hours of training per year.  The county offers trainings on a wide range of subjects related to caring for children in foster care.     

The Foster/Adoptive Parent Support Group is agency supported and coordinated by a local foster family.  Meetings are held bimonthly at The Mill on Genesee St, in Auburn.  The goal is to have one hour of training, followed by an hour meeting to discuss any concerns foster families may be having with a particular child and get feedback from their peers.  A monthly newsletter is also sent out to all open foster homes. 

Each child is assigned a caseworker when they come into care.  The caseworker visits regularly with the child and foster parents.  The caseworker also refers, coordinates and monitors any services designed to meet the needs of the child.  They are available by phone and/or email during business hours.  There is an after hours (5pm – 8am) emergency number.