Below you will find some answers
to common questions about foster care in Maine. If you have additonal questions
not answered here, or would like more information, please contact us toll free
at 1-877-505-0545. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
| How many foster parents are in Maine? |
| As of December 2008, there were approximately 1,238 foster families in
Maine. |
| Does my spouse or partner have to
attend the informational meeting with me? |
| No.
However, spouses are encouraged to attend. For most informational meetings, it
is not appropriate for children to attend. Call A Family for ME for more information. |
| Does my spouse or partner have to attend the training
with me? |
| Yes, spouses are required to attend
the pre-service training with CWTI. |
| How long
will the process take? |
| Foster Care Licensing
will usually be at least a 6-month process. |
| Can
single people provide foster care? |
| Yes single
people can provide foster care. |
| What supports
are available for foster parents? |
| Each foster
family has a DHHS foster care licensing caseworker, as well as a children's services
caseworker for each child in their home. The Department has the ability to refer
for various services, such as therapy, case management, special education, and
speech and occupational therapy. Many children in foster care have a team of professionals
that work with the foster parents to meet the needs of the child. |
| Is there a stipend? |
| Yes, the stipend the
foster family receives is based on each individual child's need. |
| How much does foster care cost? |
| Minimal,
as DHHS pays the majority of the expenses. |
| How
old do you have to be to provide foster care? |
| 21
years of age minimum. |
| What are the first steps? |
| Call A Family for ME, receive and read the information
packet, then attend an informational meeting in the district in which you live. |
| Do you have more questions? |
| Please let us know! Call 1-877-505-0545. |
