How to Be a Gay Foster Parent

Today more than ever, agencies are placing children with gay and lesbian foster parents. Arranging to be a foster parent can take less time than a formal adoption, and it can give you a chance to make a profound difference in the life of a child who may have a difficult past.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Gay friendly agencies
• Foster licensing application

1. Identify the foster home division in your county welfare department and obtain a comprehensive listing of agencies that license foster homes. Both state-operated and private agencies exist.
2. Consult a local gay or lesbian organization to help identify which agencies would be willing to accommodate your specific situation. Don't be surprised if such agencies keep a low profile, preferring to go about their work in a private manner.
3. Investigate an agency thoroughly before making your selection. Most states allow you to become a licensed foster parent through only one agency at a time.
4. Use discretion when supplying information to an agency. Avoid volunteering your sexual orientation if you sense it might damage your chances of becoming licensed. At the same time, avoid keeping things secret from an agency. As usual, tread the fine line.
5. Fill out the foster licensing application provided by the agency. In addition, expect to be interviewed at your home by an agency employee whose primary concern is that you demonstrate a stable and responsible environment for a prospective foster child.

Tips & Warnings

• Exercise patience. Becoming a foster parent takes at least two years. As a gay or lesbian parent, it could take considerably longer.
• Keep in mind that a teenager's average length of stay in a foster home is 6 to 12 months.
• Geographical location can play an important role in foster selection. Gay foster parents have been actively recruited in San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles after judges recognized their unique experience. Conversely, Nebraska will not place foster children with gay or lesbian parents.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for personalized advice from a knowledgeable lawyer licensed to practice law in your state. For specific, up-to-date advice geared to your specific situation, consult an expert.