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Make a Difference in a Child’s Life

What is foster care?

Foster care assists families experiencing extreme difficulties that impact the well-being of their children. Families First of Florida provides a safe, loving home for children and teens who are unable to live safely in their biological homes. Therapeutic foster parents open their hearts and homes to children who need a healing and nurturing environment to become their best self.

Who are foster parents?

Foster parents are devoted adults from diverse backgrounds who provide children comfort, a home, and a family. Varied in age, ethnicity and backgrounds, they play a critical role in the lives of vulnerable children and teens. Foster parents are people who love children unconditionally and have an abundance of patience. With a desire to nurture, they help children recover from trauma and overcome behavioral challenges.

Our Approach to Therapeutic Foster Care

Families First of Florida foster parents provide hope and understanding for children to overcome trauma, separation, loss and grief. Our Family Mentor Model focuses on each child’s needs and the critical role of the foster parent and child relationship. We recognize that behavior is a form of communication that stems from a place of fear and distrust. Utilizing trauma-informed therapy, motivational interviewing, and skills building activities, we help children heal and develop.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must reside in Hillsborough/Pasco/Pinellas Counties Only
  • At least 21 years of age
  • Adequate sleeping space for each child
  • Demonstrate stable housing and income
  • Pass a background check

Steps to Therapeutic Fostering

  • Attend a Foster Parent Orientation
  • 24 hours of Professional Parenting Training
  • 30 hours of Therapeutic Foster Parent Training
  • Complete Licensing Home Study
  • Pass a home safety inspection
  • Receive Foster Parent license!

Foster Parent Resources

  • On-going parent training
  • Clinical services
  • Stipend to support each child’s expenses
  • Paid respite
  • Partner with behavioral specialists and case managers
  • 24/7 availability of clinician when needed

How do I get started?

Contact us at 813-290-8560 for questions and sign-up for the next Foster Parent Orientation.

Impacting Lives, Strengthening Families

Traumatic experiences make a significant impact on how people cope, learn and interact with others. Families First of Florida’s experienced mental health clinicians provide best practice mental health services with the goal of helping those in our care grow and develop, despite their obstacles.