This article is written by our content contributor Every Child Arkansas. To learn more, visit everychildarkansas.org.
Understanding the landscape of foster care can be complex, especially when it comes to the roles played by different organizations. One key player in this system is the private license placement agency (PLPA). These agencies operate alongside state and local government entities to provide crucial support and services to foster children and their families. Let’s explore what a private license placement agency is, what services they offer, and how you get licensed through a PLPA. Whether you’re a prospective foster parent or simply interested in learning more about foster care, this guide will offer valuable insights into the unique contributions of private agencies.
Every Child Arkansas partners with seven Private License Placement Agencies across the state of Arkansas. These agencies help families get licensed to become foster parents while also offering additional resources and aid that The Department of Children and Family Services may not offer.
One of the biggest differences between being licensed through DCFS and a PLPA is that PLPA’s offer a wide range of services to their foster families. Here are just a few of the resources and services a foster family can be provided when they are licensed through an agency:
24 Hour Case Management Support
Support Groups
Grocery Assistance/Frozen Meals
Clothing Closets
Transportation to/from DCFS visits & Appointments for Children in Care
The first step to becoming a licensed foster family is filling out our connect form. This form allows us to get to know you so we can connect you with the PLPA that will suit your needs the best! You can find the connect form here.
After you fill out the connect form, you will receive a call from someone on our team. They will go over the PLPA’s in your area with you, answer any questions you have and then connect you with an agency.
After being connected with an agency, you will receive an application and additional forms or documents you may need to fill out.
Once your application with the agency has been completed, you will start training classes. To become a licensed foster home 30 hours of training is required. Your agency will help you with scheduling these classes!
If needed, you may be required to complete first-aid and CPR training.
After completing all the necessary training, a caseworker will then be sent to do a home study of your residence. You’re almost done!
The last step is your home certification. After receiving your home certification, you will officially be a licensed resource home and your home will be open for fostering.
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