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Become a Foster/ Adoptive Parent

Lewis County Department of Social Services is Looking for Families to Foster Children

Are you interested in or ever considered being a foster parent? Foster families like you are needed for youth in your community!

With everything going on in today’s world (ongoing drug epidemic, domestic violence concerns, mental health issues, etc.) many children are being removed from their homes and placed in foster care.  There are many times when family members will step up and take custody of these children, but there are also times when these children have nobody, and they end up in foster care. The Lewis County Department of Social Services is looking for adults interested in becoming foster parents. Quality kinship, foster, and adoptive homes are crucial in achieving good outcomes for children and youth in care, but finding and keeping kinship, foster and adoptive parents is an ongoing challenge. The Home Finding Unit recruits, trains and certifies foster homes in Lewis County. Individuals interested in becoming a foster parent may contact the Lewis County Department of Social Services at (315) 376-5400 for more information; ask for the home-finder.

Help make a difference today and become a Lewis County foster parent.

Foster Kids
“To the world you may be just one person but to one person you may be the world.”
For more information on becoming a Lewis County Foster Parent or learn about Relative Foster Care, please contact Mekesha Davis at (315) 376-5724.  

Eligibility Criteria

  • You are at least 21 years old
  • Single, married, or living with a partner
  • Have enough income to meet your own family’s needs
  • Are in good health
  • Can make room in your home and heart for children who need safe, temporary care
  • Be willing to complete 11 weeks of MAPP (Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting) training
  • Classes must be attended by husbands, wives and significant others in the home

Required Documentation Includes:

  • Finger printing – all household members over 18 years old
  • NYS Child Abuse/Maltreatment Registry Clearance
  • Reference from three friends or acquaintances
  • Physicals for all adults
  • Home Inspection
  • Completed Home study including information about finances, health, and family relationships
  • Foster care application and other required forms for certification
For more information visit: Become a foster Parent | Foster Care | OCFS (ny.gov)