Who do I work with?
Caregiver Support Specialist will help connect you to resources and supplies. You will also be given the option to obtain Level 1 Licensing, which is child specific. Rest assured this is only for the child(ren) you are caring for. You will not be asked to take in other children.
A Licensing Specialist will work with you and guide you through the licensing process. The Case Manager will continue to oversee the case and help with the child’s needs. You will have a team of professionals to help both you and the child.
What are the benefits of Level 1 Licensing? Level 1 Licensed homes receive the following support:
The Licensing Specialist will walk you through updating your home study. This includes a visit to your home and a minimal amount of paperwork. They will assess overall safety and caretaking. They may even be able to provide some household safety items you may need. They submit the updated home study for a special foster license for the children in your home. With your cooperation, the process is completed in 60 days or less so your funds will start as soon as possible.
Level 1 Licensing Trainings:
Caring for Children (Required – good for 5 years)
Conditions for Return Training (Required – good for 5 years)
DCF Human Trafficking Awareness 101 (Required Annually)
Navigating Psychotropic Medications for Level 1 Foster Parents (ONLY required for caregivers who are caring for a child who is prescribed psychotropic medication)
Water Safety for Caregivers and Parents (ONLY Required Annually if you have a pool, hot tub or have a body of water (pond, lake) on or directly adjacent to your home)
Capacitaciones de Licenciamiento de Nivel 1 en Español:
Condiciones para el Regreso: Capacitación
Navegando los Medicamentos Psicotrópicos para Padres de Crianza Temporal de Nivel 1
Seguridad en el Agua para Cuidadores y Padres
What happens if a child can’t go home?
For some children, the court decides on a goal of Permanent Guardianship for the child. If you choose to be the child’s permanent guardian and receive six consecutive months of payments, you may be eligible for the Guardianship Assistance Program (GAP). GAP benefits for the child include: $333 per month & Medicaid until age 18, Florida college tuition exemption voucher and continued support. For children who are 16 or 17 years old when the agreement is completed, they can receive benefits through age 21.
Contact the Caregiver Assistance Program at: cap@sccfl.org or 941-402-1101
