Become A Foster Parent
Providing a temporary family home for children and youth
Foster Connection
By opening their homes and hearts, Foster Parents make a big difference in the lives of children and youth in need of a temporary, safe and caring home.
Children and youth in Foster Care range in age from 0 to 17 years and come from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Children in care have experienced some form of trauma in addition to being uprooted from their homes. They require gentle, committed and skilled caregivers to help them grow and develop their strengths.
The goal for children in care is for them to be returned safely home, placed with an extended family member or natural support, adoption, or for them to successfully transition to independence
Foster Care Program
McMan Calgary & Area has a strong reputation of fostering in Calgary. We provide temporary care for over 60 children and youth.
Our goal is to equip foster parents with support, ongoing training and information regarding:
- Complex Trauma
- Grief & Loss
- Child Development
- Managing difficult behaviours
- Navigating government systems (Children’s Services)
- Maintaining connection to biological parents, natural supports, and community
The Foster Care Program is funded by the Government of Alberta.
FAQ
What is foster care?
Children and youth in foster care range in age from 0 to 17 years and come from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Children in care have experienced some form of trauma in addition to being uprooted from their homes. They require gentle, committed and skilled caregivers to help them grow and develop their strengths.
The goal for children in care is for them to be returned safely home, placed with an extended family member or natural support, adoption, or for them to successfully transition to independence.
Who can become a foster parent?
An individual, or couple, over the age of 18 who:
- Are Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- Rent or own a home
- Are physically and emotionally capable of a providing, quality full time care for a child
- Possess a stable income
- Are committed to continuously improving their caregiver skills
- Ability to provide a safe and nurturing living environment
Do I have to be married or own a home?
No. Foster parents can be single or married. They can be renters or homeowners. People from diverse backgrounds and lifestyles can become foster parents. Diversity within our foster care program is great; it allows for purposeful matching and best suites the foster parents as well as the children or youth.
Do I need to be a stay-at-home caregiver
No. That is a choice you make as a caregiver. At McMan we have both stay-at-home caregivers as well as full time working caregivers.
How long does it take to become foster parents?
Typically, the process takes 6-8 months, but this timeline may vary depending on the submission of paperwork, completion of required training and results of background checks.
What training is required to become a foster parent?
Initially, completion of 30-35 hours of PRIDE pre-service training, first aid and CPR-C certification is required to become a licensed foster parent. There are ongoing training and documentation needs required to maintain a license to foster.
Will I get to decide which children are placed?
Yes. Foster parents participate in the matching process in partnership with your assigned McMan team member. Consideration is always made regarding the needs of both the child and your own family dynamics.
How long does a child stay in foster care?
This varies case by case. The primary goal of foster care is for children to rejoin their family; however, this can vary from weeks to months or even years.
What supports do I receive from McMan?
We provide Foster Parents with:
- Individualized ongoing support provided by an experienced McMan team member
- Training and support meetings
- 24/7 support through our McMan emergency on-call
- Access to our agency clinician and employee assistance program
- Appreciation and connection events
- Access to cultural opportunities
Will I received financial support?
Yes. Foster parents receive a tax free monthly per diem to help cover the daily living expenses of raising a child.
Joining Our Team at a Glance
Contact Us
For more information about the Foster Care Program or for information on how to become a foster parent, please email us:
Learn More about our Therapeutic Foster Care Program:
