How long does the process take?
The home study process usually takes three to six months.
What is the greatest need for foster care?
SCCS’s greatest need for children entering foster care is families to care for infants, teens, and large sibling groups. The largest percentage of children coming into the agency’s custody are children birth to age two, children ages 12 and older, and groups of three or more siblings.
Can I be a Summit County foster parent if I don't live in Summit County?
Yes. You can be a licensed foster-to-adopt parent with SCCS and live in any of the six contiguous counties: Cuyahoga, Geauga, Medina, Portage, Stark, and Wayne.
Can you be a foster parent if you work?
Yes. Extra help for the cost of child care may be available.
Where and how often do the children visit with their parents/families?
How often children are scheduled to have visitation with their parents is established by Summit County Juvenile Court. The children and their parents often spend time together at the Family Interaction Center (FIC) or the Family Enrichment Center (FEC), both located on the grounds at SCCS. Foster parents are expected to provide the transportation to and from the FIC and FEC.
Do I have to complete all the trainings online, in person or a combination?
All of the above! You can complete all the required trainings online, in person* or a combination of both online and in person. You can register for dates and times that work with your schedule.
*There are three self-directed trainings that you can only complete online. All others can be taken in person based on availability. NOTE: A minimum of five people must register for an in-person training for it to be held.
A Network of Help
You won’t be navigating the foster journey alone. Summit County Children’s Services surrounds every new foster parent with a strong network of experienced caregivers who’ve already walked this path and are ready to offer guidance, support, and real-life wisdom.