Foster Care - DHS or Agency?
A question I get often!
We are in Oklahoma, so some of my answers to these questions may be different for those in different states, feel free to leave your kind opinion with what state you live in as well! I’d love for this to be a resource for all.
Well, what’s the difference?
When you start your journey of becoming a foster parent, you will need to get licensed. You can get your licensing by going through the state (DHS) or you can go through an agency that contracts with the state.
Both options are free & both have similar processes to getting your licenses. There is no monthly stipend different for the foster parent at either choices, the reimbursement you receive will be the same either way!
There are several advantages to going through an agency with the biggest one being…EXTRA SUPPORT!
Trust me, you’re going to need it.
Here are some ways our agency supported us while fostering:
- walked us through step-by-step with each step of getting licensed, training, & paperwork (there’s a lot!)
- you have an extra worker that is there for YOU! The child in foster care will have THEIR worker & your family will have YOURS
- our worker came to every family meeting to advocate, be a voice, & support
- our worker helped with Christmas/birthday gifts for Selah each year
- when our ceiling collapsed and our house flooded, they brought dinners & offered to help us find temporary housing
- extra eyes & opinions on the child in care
- they’ve provided extra trauma training
- they have all kinds of activities throughout the year
- so much emotional support, we have shed buckets of tears to our agency worker!
Our opinion: we would 100% recommend going with an agency! They will help advocate for you & the child in care ❤️
Oklahoma Foster Care Agencies:
TFI Family Connections (who we used)
Angels Foster Family Network
Anna’s House Foundation
Choices for Life
Circle of Care
Family for Life
Lilyfield
Lion’s Meadow of Hope
Oklahoma Families First
Open Arms
Panhandle Services for Children
Saint Francis Ministries
Sunbeam Family Services
Youth and Family Services
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