Find answers to common questions about becoming a foster parent.
The length of stay varies greatly depending on each child's unique situation. Some placements last a few days or weeks, while others may extend for months or even years. The goal is always to provide stability while working toward the best permanent outcome for the child, whether that's reunification, adoption, or another arrangement.
Yes! Many foster parents work full-time. You'll need to have appropriate childcare arrangements in place, just as you would for your own children. We can help you navigate childcare options and ensure you have the support needed to balance work and fostering.
Yes, foster parents receive a monthly reimbursement to help cover the costs of caring for a child. Rates vary based on the child's age and needs. Additionally, children in foster care are eligible for Medicaid coverage for medical, dental, and mental health services.
You'll never be alone in your fostering journey! Support includes a dedicated caseworker, 24/7 crisis line, respite care, support groups, ongoing training, and connection to our foster parent community. We're here to help you succeed and provide the best care for children.
We offer both in-person and online training options to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Many foster parents choose a hybrid approach, completing some modules online and attending in-person sessions for hands-on learning and connection with other prospective foster parents.
Nebraska requires 30 hours of pre-service training called PRIDE (Parent Resources for Information, Development, and Education). This training covers child development, trauma-informed care, discipline strategies, working with birth families, and more. We also provide ongoing training throughout your fostering journey.
Foster parents must be at least 21 years old. There is no maximum age limit—what matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable home and keep up with the physical and emotional demands of caring for children.
No, homeownership is not required. Both homeowners and renters can become foster parents. Your home simply needs to meet safety standards and have adequate space for a child, including a separate sleeping area.
Yes! Single individuals can absolutely become licensed foster parents. We welcome applications from single adults, married couples, and domestic partners who meet our requirements and are committed to caring for children.
The licensing process typically takes 3-6 months from your initial application to approval. This includes completing required training, home study visits, background checks, and paperwork. We work at your pace to ensure you feel prepared.
Getting started is easy! Simply contact one of our Nebraska offices or fill out our online application. We'll schedule an initial meeting to discuss the process, answer your questions, and help you understand what to expect.
Foster care provides temporary care for children who cannot safely live with their birth families. Foster parents open their homes and hearts to provide a safe, nurturing environment while the child's family works toward reunification or another permanent solution is found.
To become a foster parent in Nebraska, you'll need to meet these basic requirements:
Guardian Light offers various foster care options to match your family's capacity and the needs of children in care.
Temporary care while families work toward reunification
Short-term placements for children needing immediate care and safety.
For children with behavioral, emotional, or medical needs requiring specialized support
When relatives become licensed to care for family members
Guardian Light provides comprehensive support to ensure your success as a foster parent:
Our experienced team is available around the clock for guidance and support.
We proudly serve all 93 counties in Nebraska so no matter where you call home, we've got your back.
Our team has been serving families in Nebraska for a long time and we're here to put that experience to work for you.
We are Nebraska's only family support and foster care organization that is 100% distributed; we work all across Nebraska so we can serve families all over Nebraska.
Guardian Light serves every county in Nebraska with 5 strategically located visitation centers.
Find your nearest location and connect with our team.
Your decision to become a foster parent can change a child's life forever. Guardian Light is here to support you every step of the way.
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