MCKEAN COUNTY fdgfdgd
wave

Resource Family Care

Resource families are families who provide temporary care for children of all ages from McKean County who need out-of-home placement due, most often, to child abuse or neglect.

We are in need of loving, supportive and committed resource families in all areas of McKean County.

For specific information about becoming a resource parent in McKean County, contact us at 814-887-3350 and ask to speak with the Resource Care and Adoption Supervisor.
FAQs
What is resource parenting?
  • Caring for a child until a child’s parents can safely resume responsibility for taking care of the child or a permanent home can be found for the child.
  • A commitment to helping children and their families.
  • Learning and implementing the skills needed to meet the unique needs of each child.
  • An opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children, their families and the community.
Who can be a resource parent?
Like any parent, resource parents have various backgrounds and life experiences.  You can be single, married, divorced; have your own children or have not yet been a parent; work or stay at home; etc.

Basic Requirements to Become a Resource Parent:

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Pass all required child abuse and criminal history background clearances.
  • Meet state and local requirements for housing, safety, space and financial stability.
  • Have good physical and emotional health.
  • Demonstrate appropriate parenting skills, positive attitude and stamina to effectively meet the behavioral and emotional needs of children in care.
  • Work cooperatively as part of a team with McKean County DHS, a child’s parents and other private and public partners in meeting the needs of all children placed in your care.
What things should I consider when deciding to be a resource parent?
If you can answer “yes” or “probably” to the following questions, there are children in McKean County who need you.

  • Can you love and care for a child who has come from a difficult background?
  • Can you help a child develop a sense of belonging in your home even though the stay may be temporary?
  • Can you love a child who, because of fear or rejection, does not easily love you back?
  • Are you secure in yourself and your parenting skills?
  • Can you set clear limits and be both firm and understanding in your discipline?
  • Do you view bed wetting, lying and minor destructiveness as symptoms of a child in need?
  • Can you tolerate major failures and celebrate small successes?
  • Can you accept assistance and guidance from trained workers?
  • Can you maintain a positive attitude toward a child’s parent, even though the problems a child is experiencing are the result of the parent’s actions?
  • Can you love a child with all your heart and then let go?