You may have noticed that we are using the term Resource Family interchangeably with Foster Parent. The primary reason for this is the government’s decision to morph language to better fit the needs of children and the aspirations of the child welfare system. Here’s how they define it:

“A Resource Family is any individual, couple, or family who wants to provide care to a related or unrelated child (or children) who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, or otherwise in the care of a county child welfare agency or probation department.”

Along with the name change the child welfare system has also increased the depth of the approval process. Their objective is to create a Resource Family Approval Program that is streamlined, family-friendly and a child-centered process. The good news about this approval process is that once approved, Resource Families may be considered for foster care, guardianship and adoption placements, depending on the Resource Family’s goals.