Becoming a parent comes with mixed emotions. The process is exciting but overwhelming. Parents might worry whether they are financially able to care for a child, need an extra hand in caring for a child with special needs, or simply need reassurance and advice from another adult with similar experiences. Becoming a foster parent is no different and you are not alone in your worries. This is why Foster VC Kids provides a much needed Foster/Relative Caregiver Resource Tool-Kit, where Foster Families can view a complete list of resources they qualify for.

There are a great number of resources available to everyone in our Foster Community, from caregivers to youth, in areas covering: basic needs, child care and child development, networking, and more!

Did you know that Foster Parents are eligible for up to 12 hours of FREE respite care each month through Channel Islands Social Services, and discounted orthodontics through ifoster.org?

As a foster youth, foster family, relative caregiver, or professional working with any of those groups, you also have access to local resources and retail discounts that include free online tutoring and discounted laptops. James Store House, Heart-to-Heart, Cornerstone Clothing Closet, and Rachael’s Closet are organizations created especially to provide items such as clothing, furniture, backpacks and bedding to the Foster Community.

Families can be reimbursed for summer camps, typically qualify for very low or no cost child care services, and are encouraged to attend networking events. Here, foster parents and caregivers can ask questions and share experiences with other foster parents and caregivers.

If you are a part of the Foster Community or thinking about fostering a child, access the complete Toolkit at https://strengtheningvcfamilies.org//resources/ for the full list of resources, contact information, and schedules of events.