Franklin DHR holding foster parent classes

By Staff
Rebecca James, Franklin County Times
The Franklin County Department of Human Resources (DHR) will be offering Foster Parent Certification Classes beginning April 16 to help recruit new foster parents.
The course is a 10-week course, and completion of all ten classes is required for certification.
The State of Alabama requires that all foster parents first go through a 30-hour preparation course to give them the information necessary to ensure a rewarding family experience for all involved.
"The classes are the first step a person has to take to become certified as a foster parent for the state of Alabama," said DHR employee Linda McNatt. "These classes offer us the chance to teach as much about being a foster parent as we can."
Participants in the course will get the opportunity to learn the rules and regulations of being foster parents, as well as being familiarized with DHR and their policies and procedures.
"The course really is a wonderful preparation process for potential foster parents," McNatt said.
"Not only will participants learn about becoming foster parents, but they will also get to meet and hear the life experiences of people that are already foster parents."
"If you've ever thought you might want to help a child who for some reason is not able to remain with their biological family, there is nothing more wonderful you can do than to open your heart and your home to a child and help them through a difficult time," McNatt added.
"It really is a special gift to do this for a child."
If you are interested in working with children who are looking for love, security, and support, contact the Department of Human Resources at 331-5920.