FOSTER

Foster parents can pave the way for child’s future in becoming a successful adult.


LYDIA Home’s Foster Care Program goes above and beyond, working with DCFS, the natural family, and the foster family to ensure that children receive the care they need. Here at LYDIA we license and train foster parents, while also providing supportive services to children and families throughout their journey. We work to strengthen families, relationships, and to help children feel safe and loved while looking forward to the hope of a brighter tomorrow.

Step 1

Information you need to know

Basic Requirements of Foster Care: 

  • We ask you first attend an information session as a first step to becoming licensed with Lydia Home.

  • An Illinois resident, at least 25 years of age, with a verifiable income

  • In good physical and emotional health

  • Accepting of the temporary nature of foster care

  • Work cooperatively with LYDIA, DCFS, and the natural family

Types of Foster Care

  • Temporary care for children to relieve other foster parents during emergencies, vacation, or other circumstances for a few days or weeks.

  • Traditional Foster Care is temporary care of a child who has experienced abuse, neglect, or other family problems. The child can be any age (0-18). These children simply need a safe home, loving environment, and someone willing to step up and support them until the hopeful goal of reunification is achieved.

  • Therapeutic Foster Care is an innovative, evidence-based program offered by Lydia Home. This care places children with a need of trauma-informed care and emotional/behavioral needs in homes where they receive more one-on-one care and attention to thrive. Therapeutic Foster Parents receive an increased stipend (estimated $3,000/month) to allow a member of the household to devote time to the child. Foster Parents receive special training, 24/7 support, and are part of a comprehensive team that supports the child.

Step 2

Attend an Information Session

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Step 3

Read our FAQs

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  • Adolescents, brothers and sisters who need to stay together, Hispanic and African American infants and children, babies born drug-exposed or with HIV (AIDS), children with sexualized behaviors.

  • Yes

  • The licensing and training process takes from four to six months. Placement can depend on the children that are referred to our agency who may match the strengths and family dynamics of the licensed foster parent family. After your training is completed, you will be issued a license, which is valid for four years.

  • Do not be deterred by the fear of loving a child who might leave. Instead, be driven by the fear of a child never knowing love.

  • You can express a preference on the age, race, and sex of the child and the specific needs of a child, such as, the behavioral or medical needs a child may have that you believe would best fit in with your family. You are paired with a child based on your preference and what you feel equipped to foster, as well as the type of child the Lydia Home Team believes you are best suited to foster.

  • DCFS provides assistance for work-related daycare expenses.

  • Contact the LYDIA Foster Care Licensing Department to begin the process. We will set you up with a consultation, answer any questions, and work through the process with you.

  • Foster parent(s) receive a monthly stipend. DCFS pays for the medical care of the children, as well as covering educational and some personal items.

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