Residents of Fallon and Fernley are invited to a free Q&A event to learn about becoming foster parents. The event is organized by the State Division of Child and Family Services, addressing the urgent need for more foster families in Churchill and Lyon counties. Currently, all licensed foster homes in these areas are either full or unable to accommodate siblings together.
Shelby Riley, LSW, rural foster care recruiter for the Division of Child and Family Services, emphasized the importance of local foster families: “Foster families provide a safe and temporary home to children whose parents or caregivers may be struggling. They help keep children in their own community, close to their friends, adults they know, and in familiar schools.” Riley noted that such factors contribute to a sense of normalcy and stability for the children.
The upcoming Q&A session is open to the public without any obligation. It will feature a panel discussion with current foster parents, social workers, and state officials. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about various ways they can support foster youth in their communities.
Foster parents can be single or married individuals who work full or part-time and either rent or own their homes. They receive a stipend to assist with expenses like food, housing, clothing, and educational supplies. Different types of foster care homes are needed including respite care, emergency care, short-term care, and long-term care.
Virtual orientations for prospective foster parents are available on the first Thursday of every month. Interested individuals can register at RuralNVFosterCare.com or call 1-888-423-2659 for more information on the licensing process.
The Foster Care Q&A Night is scheduled for October 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fallon Youth Club located at 324 Pennington Cres, Fallon, NV 89406.
The Nevada Division of Child and Family Services works with families, community supporters, and governmental agencies to support Nevada’s children and families in reaching their potential. More information can be found at https://dcfs.nv.gov/.
