RELATIVE AND NON-RELATIVE LICENSURE (LEVEL 1)
Level 1 – Licensing for caregivers who are a relative; for example, a grandparent, aunt, uncle or cousin, as well as non-relatives who have an established relationship with a child or their family; for example, a godparent, close family friend, neighbor, or teacher. Level 1 caregivers provide temporary care until the child(ren) can be reunited safely with their parent(s).
WHO AND HOW WE SERVE
CHN licenses and supports relative and non-relative foster families that nurture and heal traumatized children ages 0 – 17, including children age 18+ in extended foster care.
Prospective families are trained to understand and respond to trauma and associated behaviors in children, as well as understand the impact of their life experiences.
Foster families are prepared and supported to work with their child(ren)’s biological parents and extended family so that critical connections and relationships are safely maintained through the child’s journey in foster care.
Foster families receive regular contact, visitation and assistance with navigating the child welfare system on behalf of their child(ren) and are considered valued and respected partners.
Monthly financial assistance to meet the needs of the child.
Quarterly and monthly foster family support groups to provide relevant training, support, fellowship and resources.
BASIC LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
You must be at least 21 years of age and a resident of Hillsborough County, Florida.
You must be financially stable enough to support yourself and an additional child(ren) for 90 days without additional financial support.
All household members must be willing to comply with background screening requirements.
If in a domestic partnership/relationship, both participants must embark on the foster care journey together and both parties are required to participate in training and the licensure process.
You must be willing to work as part of a team and advocate for the child(ren) and their family’s needs.
You must be willing to participate in on-line foster parent preparation training and the licensing process with a member of the CHN team.
HOW TO GET STARTED
If you are caring for or are considering caring for a relative or non-relative child placed into your care through the foster care system child:
Call: 813.847.8554, or email: LetsFoster@Childrenshomenetwork.org or contact the program office directly at 813.860.9385
CHN will assist and guide you with the next steps to include preparation training and licensing requirements
