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Regular Foster Care
This is the most common type of foster care. Foster families provide for the day-to-day needs of the child in a family setting with the goal,
where possible, of reuniting the child with his or her family. A child may reside with the foster family for a matter of days, weeks or months.
In some cases, children who are permanent wards of the Society may stay in a foster home for several years, until they are able to be independent
or adopted.
During the orientation and assessment process, foster families will discuss with their assessment worker, the age and needs of children they might
care for. With experience and increased skills, foster families may move to providing care for more challenging children. Once a foster family is
approved and ready for a placement, they will be contacted with information regarding a child in need of placement. A foster family does not have to
accept every child presented to them. We try to match a child to suit the gender and age range chosen by the family, as well as their skill level,
and is a good match for the child as well.
Respite Foster Care
The Respite program will appeal to people who want to consider fostering on a part-time basis. Respite Foster Homes provide a break to our regular,
full-time foster parents, or assistance when foster parents need to go out of town or on vacation. Respite placements can last from a few days to a
few weeks. Some Respite Foster Families only provide care on weekends. This is a huge support to our full-time foster families and the children in their care.
Kinship (In-Care) Foster Homes
Kinship homes are a type of foster home provided by a family who is known to the child, usually a relative or a friend of the child's family. These
foster families operate much the same as regular foster families, the only exception being that the caregivers are known to the child and are open
as a foster home for that specific child. These homes generally do not accept other children for placement. Kinship (in care) foster families must
complete our regular home study, assessment and training program and are eligible for financial assistance from FACS.
Customary Care Homes
Customary Care Homes are places of safety within the Native or Aboriginal community. Customary Care is part of the continuum of care options for
Aboriginal children. Customary Care is a model of Aboriginal child welfare service that is culturally relevant and incorporates the unique traditions
and customs of each First Nation. Customary Care Agreements are utilized when protection concerns in a family require out-of-home placement. A
Customary Care home must comply with all requirements of foster care licensing after 60 days, if that person is willing and able to continue providing
a safe place for the child.
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