| What exactly is Therapeutic Foster Care? |
Respite is defined as "an interval of rest or relief". The Respite Care Program of Child & Family Focus (CFF) provides short-term, temporary care to families who need a break from the daily challenges of caring for a child with mental health needs. Unlike typical childcare, respite care is utilized to increase the wellness of the family and prevent unwanted crises.
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| What is the goal of Therapeutic Foster Care (TFC)? |
The treatment of children in a family setting is the principal focus of this program. In most cases, reunification with the natural or legal family is the goal.
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| What is the role of a Therapeutic Foster Parent? |
Therapeutic Foster Parents are invaluable to Child & Family Focus, Inc. (CFF), and play a pivotal role in the program. TFC parents serve as both caregivers of children with treatment needs (the foster role), and are catalysts of planned change (the treatment role). They perform the function of a loving parent, and at the same time are an integral part of a professional treatment team.
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| Do I have what it takes to be a TFC parent? |
If you meet the Foster/Respite parent qualifications (see enclosed), are willing to participate in our annual training program, & can offer unconditional love and commitment to a child, then the answer is Yes!
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| Where do the children in need of TFC come from? |
The children we serve come from natural family homes, other foster homes, residential treatment facilities, group homes, or psychiatric hospitals.
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| Am I expected to take in any child that is referred to me? |
No, you are never obligated, and must be comfortable with and equipped to care for the children brought into your home. To help you decide if the placement is a good one, CFF will provide you with information on the child's background, mental health, and behaviors. We respect the decisions of our providers, and understand limited preferences & resources.
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| How long will a child remain in my home? |
The nature of foster care is temporary, with the hopes of reunification; however, each child's situation is unique. A child may stay in your home for up to six months, a year, or even longer.
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| How do I handle a child leaving my home? |
The goal of TFC is reunification, but meeting that goal can naturally leave an empty feeling. Just as parents raise their biological children, knowing one day they will leave their home, we must prepare foster children to do the same. There is never a replacement for a child, but when one leaves your home, there will undoubtedly be another one that needs your caring and support.
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| Do I receive financial reimbursement? |
Yes, along with the intangible benefits that come with providing TFC, our providers receive a daily reimbursement to cover the costs of caring for the child, including health care. CFF does require that your income is sufficient to meet the needs of the family prior to becoming a provider.
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| What are my legal responsibilities? |
TFC providers must have no criminal or child abuse record, as verified by the state of PA. Providers must live in a home that meets PA state safety standards (determined during a home safety inspection and interview conducted by our agency, as well as a fire safety inspection, conducted by your local fire company). Providers must be willing to follow rules and regulations set forth by CFF.
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| What kind of support and training will I receive? |
CFF provides clinical support, 24 hour/7 day telephone assistance, crisis support, & respite care, when necessary. Providers must be willing to participate in our annual training program, which includes First Aid & CPR.
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