Can anyone foster?
All foster care programs in the province of Ontario are overseen by the Ministry of Child and Youth Services.  Caithkin has been licensed for eight years.

What’s involved in becoming a foster parent?
Individuals interested in becoming involved should contact the office.  Following an initial interview to discuss the process and attendance at some in-house training, an application package will be prepared for your completion.  While your references are being obtained the Executive Director will make an appointment to meet with you, and all other family members.  As well she will complete a physical plant inspection to confirm that all ministry requirements are met.  Once you have been approved, it is likely that you will be asked to provide respite for an internal home prior to a full-time placement.  You will then be placed on our vacancy list and considered presented to the placing agency when an apporpriate referral is received.

 Can we choose the age or gender of a child?
Families are matched with children according to their own family makeup, considering gender, developmental and emotional challenges, age, culture and geographic location.  Sometimes children are placed in their own community to provide continuity, but this is not always the case.  Caithkin currently receives referrals for children from 0 to 18.

How long are placements?
Placements can range from a few days to several years depending on the individual case. 

What happens once a child is in your home?
A unique plan is developed for each child with appropriate community and professional resources being identified and reviewed regularly.  Caithkin currently uses community resources such as schools, health professionals and local recreational initiatives when developing these plans.  When it is in the best interest of the child the natural family may also be involved in planning.

Do we do this on our own?
Each home has the support of a resource worker who ensures that their concerns as well as those of the child are considered in the development of the individual plan.  In addition, Caithkin has Child and Youth Workers as well as teacher support to work with our children.

What does it cost to foster?
Although foster parents do not receive a salary for fostering they are provided for reimbursement for any expenses that may be incurred.  This rate is established by the overseeing Ministry.