Diversion Adolescent Foster Care of Ohio, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

 

I have put together some answers to some frequently asked questions for your review.  If at any time you would like to talk with a representative from our agency regarding questions you may have please contact Stacy Shaw at 1-800-824-3007.

 

Ø      Is there a need for foster parents?

o       Yes, we are always receiving referrals for children who are in need of a stable, nurturing home. 

§         According to the AdoptOhio web site: http://jfs.ohio.gov/oapl/ “On any given day over 22,000 children are living in foster families or in another out-of-home placement setting. These children, who reside in the custody of local children service agencies, may be dealing with issues of past abuse, neglect, and/or dependency.

Ø      Where do the children in Diversion’s foster care program come from?

o       Diversion is a private non-profit foster care agency serving Ohio.  We have offices located in Findlay, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.  We accept placements from any of Ohio’s 88 counties from a Children Services Agency or a Department of Job and Family Services Agency.

Ø      What are the ages of children in foster care?

o       Children in Diversion’s programs are from ages 0 – 21.  The majority of children are ages 10 – 18.  We do also have a need for families willing to take sibling groups and children with medical or mental health issues.

Ø      As a foster parent what services does Diversion, Inc. provide to my family?

o       In most cases, weekly in your home Case Management support

o       Assistance in the coordination of services, which may be needed for a child including but not limited to: counseling services, medical appointments, educational advocacy.

o       24-hour on call support

o       Foster Parent financial reimbursement

o       Ongoing Training

Ø      What does it cost to become a foster parent?

o       Diversion, Inc does not charge a family to be licensed as a foster parent, however there will be some charges which may include but not limited to:

§         All members of your household will be required to have a medical exam

§         All adult members of your home will be required to contact an agency in your area for a web check for BCI and FBI background checks.  Any alternate caregiver will also need to have a background check.

§         A fire inspection of your home

§         A water test if you do not have city water

Ø      What type of documentation will I need to provide to Diversion, Inc?

o       As you begin the process you will be assigned an Assessor  who will walk you through the process, some items which you will be required to present are:

§         A list of 5 persons to contact for references 3 must be non-relative.

§         A list of all pets in your home as well as verification of current shot records

§         Copy of Car insurance

§         Copy of Driver’s license

§         Copy of Social Security Card

§         Copy of Homeowner’s or Renter’s insurance

§         Past 5 years tax records

§         Proof of Income

§         Marriage license/Divorce decree

Ø      How long does it take to be approved?

o       The goal of Diversion, Inc. is to recommend families within 90 days of your starting the process

o       To meet this goal requires a true team approach.  Including attending training, and submission of necessary paperwork items.

Ø      How long will it be till I have a child in placement with our family?

o       There is no direct answer to this question.  There are many variables to making a placement.  As mentioned yes, there is a need for foster parents.  However, your family needs to assess the characteristics of a child you are willing to accept into your home.  The more flexible and open you are to working with children who have a variety of needs will help us determine an appropriate match for your family.  (This will be discussed in more detail in training.)

Ø      How do I get started?

o       Join us for a foster parent Pre-placement training course/ or

o       Call and schedule an appointment with Stacy at 1-800-824-3007 to have your questions answered.