Foster Care & Adoption Resources
Resources & Common Questions
At Orchards, we want to ensure you have the information you need at your fingertips. Whether you are a current foster parent, a prospective adoptive family, or a community member looking to help, this hub serves as your central point for all forms, guides, and answers.
Essential Forms & Guides
For Prospective Foster/Adoptive Parents:
- Adoption & Foster Care Resource Guide
- Orientation RSVP
For Youth:
- Youth in Transition (YIT) Intake Form
For Donors:
- In-Kind Donation Form
- Mail-In Donation Form
For Partners:
- Independent Living Provider Application
Understanding Adoption & Foster Care
The path to helping a child is unique for every family. Here are the most common questions we receive to help you decide which path is right for you.
What is the main difference between Adoption and Foster Care?
While both provide a loving home, the goals and legal structures differ:
- Adoption is a permanent placement. Birth parents' rights have been terminated, and you become the child's legal parent for life.
- Foster Care is a temporary placement. The primary goal is reunification with the biological family. Decision-making is shared between birth parents, the agency, and the court.
Your Questions, Answered
Choosing to open your home to a child is a life-changing decision. We have compiled the most comprehensive list of questions we receive to ensure you feel confident, informed, and supported at every step of your journey.
Eligibility & Lifestyle
Do I need to be married or have a partner?
No. Orchards welcomes single parents, married couples, and partners in same-sex relationships. What matters most is your ability to provide a stable, loving, and supportive environment.
I rent my home; am I still eligible?
Yes. You do not need to own your home. Whether you rent or own, your home must meet safety standards, have adequate space for a child (including a dedicated bed), and pass a standard home environmental check.
Can I foster if I have biological children at home?
Absolutely. Many of our families have biological children. We work closely with you during the "matching" process to ensure that the age and needs of a foster child are a good fit for your current family dynamic.
Do I need a specific religious background?
No. Orchards was founded by the National Council of Jewish Women, but we serve and recruit families of all faiths, or no faith. We respect and celebrate the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of all people.
The Licensing Journey
What kind of "Background Checks" are performed?
To ensure the safety of the children, all household members (18+) must undergo:
- Fingerprinting and Criminal Record Clearances.
- Central Registry Clearance (checking for history of child abuse/neglect).
- Sex Offender Registry checks.
- Personal references from at least three unrelated individuals.
What is a "Home Study" or "Home Assessment"?
This is a series of interviews and home visits where an Orchards specialist gets to know your family history, your parenting style, and your motivation for fostering or adopting. It is a collaborative process designed to ensure a successful match.
How much "Say" do I have in which child comes to my home?
Total Say. You specify the age range, gender, and the types of needs (medical, behavioral) you feel equipped to handle. When a child needs a home, we call you with the information we have, and you make the final decision to accept the placement.
Daily Life & Support
Who pays for the child’s medical and dental care?
Children in foster care are covered by Medicaid. You will not be responsible for their medical, dental, or mental health costs. We provide you with the information to access these services.
Can I take a foster child on vacation?
Yes, with coordination. We encourage foster children to be part of your family activities. Depending on the length of the trip and whether you are leaving the state, you may need permission from the child’s caseworker or the court.
What if the placement isn't working out?
Our goal is stability, but we know challenges arise. Orchards provides 24/7 crisis support. If a situation becomes untenable, we work with you to find a solution, which may include additional services, respite care (temporary relief), or, as a last resort, moving the child to a different home.
Who handles transportation to appointments and visits?
As a foster parent, you are the primary caregiver. This includes transporting the child to school, doctor appointments, and scheduled visits with their biological parents. Think of it as you would for any child in your care.
The Legal Path to Permanence
What does "Reunification" actually mean?
Reunification is the process of a child returning to their biological parents once the safety concerns that led to their removal have been resolved. This is the primary goal of the foster care system. Foster parents play a vital role by supporting the child during this transition.
How often are the court hearings?
Foster care cases are reviewed by a judge approximately every 90 days. These hearings determine the progress of the birth parents and the continued necessity of foster care.
What happens if the parents' rights are terminated?
If the court determines that it is not safe for a child to return home, they may "Terminate Parental Rights" . At this point, the child becomes "legally free" for adoption, and the current foster parents are engaged at the beginning of the adoption process to determine if they want to and have the ability to adopt.
Have a Question We Haven’t Answered?
Every situation is unique. If you have a specific question about your eligibility or a child's needs, don't guess—ask an expert.