Who does Coyote Hill Foster Care Ministries license?
We license individuals and couples wishing to provide care to children/youth unable to live in their natural home setting for a variety of reasons. Requirements to apply to be a foster family include the following: at least 21 years old; citizen of the U.S. or legal immigrant; be in good physical and mental health as verified by a physician; have adequate bedroom and bed space; and a safe home environment according to the standards set forth by the Dept of Social Services.
What is the role of a Family Advocate?
Family Advocates are essential to the mission of Coyote Hill Foster Care Ministries. A Family Advocate’s role is to walk through life with the foster families under their care, while also providing in-home coaching and mentoring for foster families on a regular basis. They maintain a relationship with the family to make sure they have everything needed to be successful as foster parents.
Family Advocates could provide anything from a Welcome Basket when the family gets their first placement, to physical needs for their home, to more training throughout their foster parenting journey. Our Family Advocates are excited to serve and walk through all the fun times as well as the challenges!
What does it cost to become a foster parent?
The costs associated with becoming a foster parent are minimal. All required training is provided for free. You may have to pay a copay for physicals or medical documentation.
Do I have to put the children in my care on my health insurance?
No. All foster children qualify for health insurance through Healthy Blue Missouri, a health plan that serves MO HealthNet Managed Care members.
What if we don’t want to adopt? Can we only foster?
Absolutely!
Can we foster to adopt?
Yes, many foster parents choose to adopt children who have been in their care.
What ages of children are in foster care?
Children ages 0-21 are in foster care in Missouri. We have cared for children who are days old, and children do not age out of foster care until their 21st birthday. The average age of children in foster care in Missouri is between 9 and 10 years old.
How many children could be placed in our home?
Currently, a traditional foster home can house up to six children in their home. However, this includes any biological children who are already in the home.
What trainings are required to become a foster parent?
The main training to become a licensed foster parent is MO C.A.R.E., a 30-hour course designed to introduce potential foster parents to foster care. CPR/First aid training is also required before licensing can be completed. Foster parents also need to complete virtual trainings, including Protecting Foster Youth from Secondhand Smoke Exposure, Psychotropic Medications, and Informed Consent.
How long are children in foster care?
On average, children are in foster care approximately 24 months in the State of Missouri.
How long after we are licensed will we receive placements?
It could be right away or it could a few weeks or months. It depends on various things, such as the age range you are willing to take, or the needs of the children that come into care.
How long does it take to become a licensed foster parent?
The typical timeframe to become a licensed foster parent is approximately 4-6 months. This includes all training requirements, background checks, the home study process, and CPR/First aid certification.