HELP A VULNERABLE CHILD FLOURISH.
Be the difference in a child’s life by becoming a foster parent.
“Every child is one caring adult away from being a success story.”
– Jason Shipp, author and former foster child
Ready to make a lasting impact on a child’s life as a licensed foster parent? By joining our caring community, we’ll equip you to provide a nurturing home so children can flourish in a loving, gospel-centered environment.
Together, we can help change the future of child welfare in Nebraska—one child at a time.
What’s the process like?
Here’s what everyone has to do to become a licensed foster parent.
Reach out to us if you are ready to be a foster parent or just have questions.
If you are ready to become a licensed foster parent in Nebraska, we’re here for you. Do you have questions, concerns, or just want to process with someone about next steps? We’re here for that too.
We schedule two conversations: one on the phone and one over video chat. We get to know you and your heart for vulnerable children.
To best support and serve you as you journey through this process, we need to get to know you. We’ll get basic history and family information. But we’ll also ask about the calling God has put in your heart and why you want to be a foster parent. An important part of this process is also determining what your parameters are for caring for a child (age, medical needs, developmental stage, etc.)
Attend our 11-week Foster Parent Training and begin the licensing process.
To get licensed as a foster parent, you’ll need to take our foster parent training class, complete a home study, and a full background check. During the class, Christian Heritage staff will gather paperwork, interview everyone who lives in your home, inspect your house for safety, and fully explain the responsibilities of foster parenting.
We work with you to determine what kind of placements work best for you and your family.
Once you are a licensed foster parent, we will call you when a child comes into care and we feel that you and a child are a good fit for each other. The good news is that you get to make the decision. We never manipulate your emotions or make you feel guilty. It’s a process and we trust the Lord will lead you.
We walk alongside you to provide continuous training, support, and care.
Foster parenting is rewarding, but it’s also difficult. That’s why you need a trusted organization to flourish. Otherwise, the kids in your care won’t flourish. We provide 24/7 on-call availability, support groups, training nights, community gatherings and more. And it’s all in a Christ-centered community.
Questions & Answers
How do I become a licensed foster parent?
The application process involves taking our foster parent training (called TIPS-MAPP). The training is 11-weeks long. You’ll meet once a week for 3-hrs. During your training, you’ll begin your home study. A home study is your chance to help us get to know the entire picture of you, your family, your history, and help you prepare for fostering. This careful screening process helps you determine whether or not foster care is right for you. If yes, this process also helps us match the right child to your home.
How long does the licensing process take?
With taking the 11-week training, the whole process from training to licensing to a child being placed in your home should take 6 months or less.
Who are the children in foster care?
A child in foster care may be from birth to age 19. Time in care ranges from a few months to a year or more. Foster families that can care for siblings and teenagers are needed most. Children ages birth through five years rarely enter foster care. Over 80% of children enter care because of neglect, though some enter care because of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. Our training and support of you is critical to helping these children experience stability in a Christ-centered home.
What makes for a successful foster parent?
Our most successful foster parents are teachable, dependable, and compassionate. They’re willing to learn about trauma and how using different parenting styles for children with trauma can be effective and healing. They also know they can’t do it alone and are ready to ask for help when they need it.
Do I need special training to become a licensed foster parent?
Yes. In Nebraska, you are required to have at least 30 hours of initial training. To finish your licensing process, you need to complete a home study and background check as well. We’ll provide everything you will need in a clear, straightforward process.
Do I have to take every child you ask to place with me?
No. Before placement, Christian Heritage will present you with available information about the child we believe “matches” best with your situation. You can always ask for additional information, but sometimes we know very little about a child. You always have the choice to accept or reject a placement. Saying “no” does not affect if we ask you to care for children in the future. You always have the right to do what’s best for your family.
What kind of support does Christian Heritage offer?
Christian Heritage has an incredible reputation for the support we provide our foster children and families. We are often told we “do so much more” than other agencies. We maintain frequent, consistent contact, and with our on-call line, we’re available 24-7 every day of the year.
Christian Heritage is here to help become a licensed foster parent. But we’re here for so much more than that. We want to equip you to be a safe, loving, connection for vulnerable children for as long as God calls you to foster care.
Do foster children ever become available for adoption?
Yes. Our ultimate goal is for children to return to their home. But sometimes that’s not possible and the court may order an adoption. As a foster parent, you would be a consideration for a child in your home who a permanent family.
Ready to make a difference in the life of a child or still have questions? Get in touch with us.
The Christian Heritage Difference
“If God has called you to do this, you can do it here. If this is what God has called you to do, you can be in it here for the long haul.”
“As a church, when we looked around Lincoln for an expert partner in caring for vulnerable children, Christian Heritage was it.”
“God has used Christian Heritage to give my family access to tools to stay together, grow together, and love together.”