Foster Care

It's hard to imagine, but many children are convinced they're not lovable. Some have lived in so many different foster homes, they've given up on the dream of ever having their very own family. We want to change that.

If you love having children in your life, you may be the person we're looking for to adopt or be a foster parent for a child who needs you.

JFS will be a supportive partner, helping you and the child in making a successful transition into your life. Whether you choose to become a foster or adoptive parent to a child who has been abused or neglected, or choose domestic or intercountry adoption of an infant or toddler, we will be with you every step of the way.

Most children available through JFS Foster & Adoption Services are between the ages of 3 and 14, of all races and religions, and are currently under the care of the CT Department of Children and Families (DCF). There are similar children needing adoptive families.

Some are brothers and sisters who need a home together. Some cope with medical issues, though most children are physically healthy. Almost all of the children have emotional scars from being uprooted many times, and need extra attention.

We especially need families who can parent children with medical needs such as asthma, premature birth, or exposure to maternal health problems. Many of the children with medical needs are babies.

We need a few families who can help children return home and many families who will make a long-term commitment. Every child needs a family that is willing to commit to his or her well being.

You can find pictures and heart warming stories of our children in Faces of Our Children. These children are in need of a place to call home.

Who Can be a Foster Parent?
In general, the qualifications are flexible-
the most important are your desires and ability to love and accept a child, meet the child's special needs, provide a safe and secure environment, and have a stable source of income.

• You do not need to earn a high income or own your home
• You can be married or single
• Families of all religions, races and cultural backgrounds are eligible

JFS offers....

• Help finding the child who fits your family
• Group or individual orientation for anyone interested in foster care or adoption of children needing extra attention
• Educational series where you can learn more about life as a foster or adoptive family
• Preparation for parenting through a home study
• Help so you and your child can adjust to each other as you build your family
• Assistance if you are interested in adopting your foster child and with legal papers to finalize an adoption
• Monthly training and support groups for foster and adoptive parents and respite services for foster parents

JFS conducts ongoing free, no-obligation informational meetings regarding foster care and adoption. Everyone is invited to attend our free information meetings.

For more information, contact JFS via phone or e-mail...we're here to help you create your family.

For information regarding foster care Email us at: ml@jfsnh.org