Stories from our Foster Families
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you determine what child or youth is matched to my family?
- Children are matched based on what you identify as the best fit for your family.
- You are an active part of the matching process.
Can I meet with a child prior to placement?
- In planned placements, yes, this can happen.
- When emergency placements occur, we provide as much information as possible for you to make an informed decision.
What support will I receive after I become an approved foster family?
- A dedicated coordinator who knows you and your foster child
- Ongoing training that incorporates peer mentoring
- One-on-one support from your assigned coordinator
- You will have support 24 hours/day.
- Connections to community-based supports
- Written material to help educate your family and friends of your decision and role
How can I help a child adjust to my home?
- Wesley Family Services will share information about the child.
- You will have an opportunity to learn more about the child through a meeting known as Bridging the Gap.
- The Wesley Family Services coordinator will help you through the process.
What is my role once the child is placed in my home?
- Provide a safe nurturing home
- Ensure the child attends identified court-ordered services
- Work effectively as a team member with the professionals that surround the child
- Support the child´s identified permanency goals
- Adhere to Wesley Family Services procedures
Do I have to supervise family visitations between the child and parents?
- You will receive more information about the parental situation at the time of placement.
- Supervised visits are usually the responsibility of Wesley Family Services.
- You should share information about child to keep parents informed.
Will it be difficult for me and my family to have a child leave my home?
- This differs among individuals and families. Wesley Family Services is here to support you through this process.
- Some families find comfort in knowing they have been an active part of the child´s life and feel good about helping the child achieve their desire to return home
- In some cases, children cannot return home and the child´s foster or kinship family may be asked to provide permanency for the child through adoption or legal custodianship.
What happens if I adopt and need support later?
- Wesley Family Services provides an array of post-adoption services.