Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a licensed foster parent for refugee youth? Our Refugee Foster Care program offers a unique opportunity to open your heart and home to unaccompanied refugee minors. Here's a comprehensive look at the process.
Step 1: Submit an Inquiry
Your journey begins with an inquiry through the Catholic Community Services website or by emailing our Refugee Foster Care Recruiter at
Step 2: Attend an Information Meeting
At the Information Meeting, you'll learn about CCS, the Refugee Foster Care program, the experiences of unaccompanied refugee minors, and the various ways you can get involved. This session is designed to answer all your questions and provide you with a solid understanding of what to expect.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
If you're ready to take the next step after the Information Meeting, you'll reach out to the recruiter to sign up for the upcoming training. The application process includes submitting basic family information and completing background checks for everyone in your household aged 12 and above. Once your application is approved, you're officially registered for the training.
Step 4: Introduction to the Trainer and LMS
Next, you'll meet our Foster Family Trainer, who will guide you through the steps leading up to the licensing class. You'll gain access to our Learning Management System (LMS) to begin the Foster Parent licensing curriculum. Throughout training, you will be expected to complete homework assignments in the LMS for each of the 11 units covered. You will start with the self-guided modules in Units 1 and 2. Don't hesitate to reach out to the trainer with any questions.
Step 5: Attend Training
Training spans six to seven weeks with sessions held every Tuesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm. The training covers 11 essential topics:
- Orientation (In-person)
- A Look at Culture
- Trauma & Child Development
- Understanding Mental Health & Diagnosis
- Developing Healthy Relationships
- Therapeutic Communication
- Understanding & Changing Behavior
- Skill Teaching
- Conflict Resolution
- Understanding and Managing Crisis
- Policies and Procedures (In-person)
Step 6: Turn in Paperwork
Throughout the training, with guidance from our trainers, you'll complete and submit the necessary paperwork. This includes background checks, a doctor’s checkup, immunization verification, home inspection preparation, CPR certification, Mental Health First Aid certification, confidentiality and behavior management agreements, auto insurance information, and CMG (Catholic Mutual Group) courses for youth safety and defensive driving.
Step 7: Home Study and Safety Inspection
After completing your training and paperwork, the next step is the home study. This involves a three to four hour appointment at your home, where all household members are present. The home study includes in-depth interviews and a Home Safety Inspection.
Step 8: Become a Licensed Foster Parent!
Congratulations! Once licensed, you'll be assigned a Family Consultant who will support you throughout your fostering journey. They will help you find suitable respite and placement options for your family. Additionally, your Family Consultant will visit you monthly to offer ongoing support and resources. In addition, your foster youth’s case manager will come to your home at least once a month to check on the youth.
Start Your Journey!
Ready to take the first step? Register for our next Information Meeting here. Your journey to making a difference in the lives of refugee youth begins today.
By following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to welcome a refugee youth into your home and make a lasting impact. Join us in this rewarding journey and become a part of our supportive foster care community.
If you have questions or are interested in becoming a refugee foster parent, please contact our Refugee Foster Care Recruiter, Kelly at
Learn more about the Refugee Foster Care program here.
