Recently in New Mexico, a group of advocates for foster youth and former foster children spoke to state leaders to push for change. All too often, the voices of these kids go unheard. They need more people on their side to make the time spent in care easier.
You can also become an advocate for change. One of the best ways to learn about the system and help these children is to learn how to become a foster parent in New Mexico.
The state desperately needs families willing to provide safe and stable temporary housing. If interested, here's what you need to know to get started.
Close to 400,000 children are in the U.S. foster care system, and the numbers are on the rise. Yet, the path to becoming a foster parent in New Mexico can often seem unclear. Foster US Kids.org is your source for information and guidance, connecting you with a local New Mexico agency to simplify becoming a foster parent.
There are six steps to complete before you can bring a child into your home as a licensed foster parent in New Mexico:
Parenting is a rewarding journey marked by commitment and growth. For foster children in New Mexico, the search is not for a perfect parent but for someone they can count on for love, care, and a stable home – a foundation that will make a life-altering difference.
We at Foster US Kids are grateful you are on the path to learning more. Contact a New Mexico child-placing agency for detailed guidance through every step.
As a foster parent, you should become familiar with the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department. The CYFD website provides information meetings, resource family guides, printables and PDFs, and more.
New foster parents learn much of what they need to know in the state-required training classes. You can find calendars with meeting dates through the CYFD as well. Foster care training occurs before or during an application process.
The purpose of the training is to educate parents on the trauma that foster kids endure and how to provide care with this in mind. You'll also learn about key topics such as cultural sensitivity, appropriate methods of discipline, the legal system and procedures, etc.
This educational service is one of the best forms of support you'll receive. You can also meet other foster parents in training and form connections.
Creating a support group is vital if you want someone on your side when you have questions or concerns. New foster parents will find that connecting with other foster families gives them an opportunity to learn and grow to become better caregivers.
Adoption and foster care agencies provide full support. A local agency can recruit, train, educate, and supervise foster families. Other than the State of New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department, there is the Adoption Assistance Agency, Christian Child Placement Services, and Joyful World Ministries All Age Adoptions Plus.
So now you've learned more about the state's requirements and the current picture of the foster care situation. However, you likely still have questions. We'll answer a few of the more common ones we receive.
The best way to find out if you're ready to become a new foster parent is to contact an advocate and ask for more information. There's no pressure to commit if you decide it isn't right for you at this time.
You should also ask yourself some questions first. Why do you want to foster? Do you have the time and energy to care for a child right now?
The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department will not discriminate based on age, race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
However, you must be healthy enough to care for a foster child. You'll have to pass a physical exam before getting licensed.
Renters can foster a child as well as homeowners. The only requirement is that you have enough bedroom space and room for their personal belongings.
Foster children of the same sex can share a bedroom as long as they have their own bed. Keep in mind there are specific space requirements to consider.
Now that you know more about how to become a foster parent in New Mexico, you can contact your local child-placing agency and ask for more information. An advocate will reach out to you and discuss your preferences and questions.
