Foster Parent Application Process

Because the Foster Parents are the primary therapists for a child, it is of vital importance that a careful and thorough screening of applicants is done. The screening process will include, but is not limited to the following steps and criteria:

• Minimum of 2 interviews in the applicant’s home and involving all household members. Individual and joint interviews will be conducted. All members of the household over the age of 6 will be involved in the interviewing process.
• A complete home inspection to determine suitability of the home for placement of a child. This inspection will include the completion of the Fire and Safety Standards List.
• 5 references will be contacted by phone.
• A written statement from a physician regarding the health of the applicants and their family will be received.
• A criminal record check of the applicants and all individuals 18 years of age and over will be obtained.
• Participation in Bridgeway’s orientation and training sessions will be required.
• Previous foster care providers with whom the applicants have been involved in the past 10 years will be contacted.
• The local CAS will be contacted to request a database search for the purpose of collecting information regarding suspected child abuse.

The screening process is a mutual assessment. Bridgeway collects reliable information and assesses suitability for fostering while the applicants are also becoming fully aware of the expectations and requirements of providing foster care in partnership with Bridgeway.

Significant areas of information that will be gathered in order for Bridgeway to understand the applicants and their families include:

• Family history and relationships
• Communication skills
• Motivation
• Family interests, values and priorities
• Experience, skills and abilities
• Nature of the environment (degree of structure, control, nurturance, orderliness, etc.)
• Willingness to learn new skills
• Ability to work cooperatively