Ontario Foster Parents - Information Please?

Question

My family is considering becoming a foster family and I would like to know the pros/cons of becoming foster parents. I already know the rate per day per child, but am curious as to what some of the other expenses are. Is there profit, shortfalls, or just par with income vs expenses?? If you feel that is an unreasonable question (i see from another posters question many took offense to a question similar in nature) I would like to know why?? (from the foster parents point of view) . My husband and I have been researching this for over a year now and are looking for some testimonials from those out there who deal with this situation every day. Thank you in advance!

Answer 1

My husband and I are in the process of becoming foster parents.  As far as I know, foster parents are given approximately $30 a day to cover food, clothing and extra expenses used because of the child (heating, hydro etc.)  I was also told that driving and fuel costs would be covered as well as events or clubs that the child wants to belong to.  The shortfalls are that the job requires a lot of patients and the stress may be very high.  Kids may break things and destroy something that means something to you.  They may swear and act out what they have gone through.  You may have to go to court, and you may have to deal with the parents.  You cant plan trips or events, because something may come up.  A lot of false accusations may be reported and investigations are normal.  The good news is, the rewards of helping a child in need and possibly helping the mother get her child back may be worth more than all of the bad that goes along with foster care.  Good luck and let me know how you make out. If you have an email address I will right back.  Take Care.