Becoming A Foster Parent

You can make a difference in a child's life. You have the opportunity as a foster parent to provide a safe, secure and caring home to a child. You can help support the child in maintaining ties to their Indian community and with their Indian identity. TESSA will provide supportive services to the child and your family. Our vision is for Indian people to care for Indian people. You have more to offer then you may realize. If not you then who?

Who can apply?

Our goal is to recruit potential foster parents who are enrolled tribal members, eligible for tribal membership, decedents, or families that are accepted within the Indian community. We are recruiting foster families who reside in urban or rural areas within a two hour radius of Sacramento.

How do I get started?

Getting started is easy. First, either call TESSA's main office number and ask to speak with our Recruiter who will assist you in answering any questions you may have, or call our office and request a foster home packet which will be sent to you. Complete and return the paperwork to our office.

What's next?

During the second phase of the application process, a TESSA Recruiter will call you after you preliminary paperwork is returned. A second packet of forms including the background check information and fingerprinting information will be sent to you. Complete all information and return to TESSA.

Next you will be invited to attend our orientation. During the orientation, you will receive instructions on required trainings, any additional paperwork needed, and the upcoming home study/ home evaluation.

Will I have out of pocket expenses?

Minimal expenses directly associated with the certification process will be incurred by prospective foster parents. Typical expenses include fingerprinting, child abuse clearances, First Aide and CPR. These expenses will be reimbursed following successful certification.

Basic requirements for foster parents

Be at least 21 years old.

Have sufficient income to cover your familyís needs and provide for the foster childís basic needs.

Have enough housing space to accommodate the requirements set forth for the foster child.

Be able to provide 24-7 care for the foster child which may include respite or daycare.

How long does the process take and when should I expect my first placement?

The entire certification process usually takes about three to six months from first application submission to placement of the child however, unique situations may come up that prolong this process.

Legal Documents/Forms

Coming soon.

Regulations

Coming soon.

TESSA Foster Parent Handbook

Coming soon.

Benefits for kids

Coming soon.