Straight from the Heart
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We are a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1998 to support and advocate on behalf of foster families throughout San Diego County.  We are a member of the ​North San Diego County Foster Parents Association. For over two decades, thousands of children have benefitted from our services and are thriving with their foster families or have found a forever home with an adoptive family.

Who Can Be a Foster Caregiver?
Any individual, couple, or family who wants to provide care to a related or unrelated child(ren) who is under the jurisdiction of the juvenile court, or otherwise in the care of a county child welfare agency or probation department. Our greatest need is for caregivers who can embrace children who have developmental challenges, medical disabilities, older youth, sibling groups, and various ethnic/racial backgrounds. Becoming a foster parent is simple, but the process takes time and determination to complete.
Become a Foster Caregiver in San Diego County
1. Attend a Resource Family Approval (RFA) Orientation meeting
2. Complete and Submit RFA Application forms and supporting documents
3. Complete Background Assessment and Home Environment Assessment
​​
​4. Complete 12 Hours of Trauma Informed Pre-Service (TIPS)
5. Complete the Family Evaluation, which includes interviews with all adults and children/youth living in the home.
6. Receive Approval and Written Report

LEARN MORE
Typical Challenges Foster Parents Encounter
Difficult behaviors, health & medical concerns
  • drug and alcohol exposed infants
  • children on the autism spectrum
  • physical, sexual, emotional abuse
  • severe neglect
  • mental illness
  • developmental delays
  • cerebral palsy
  • shaken baby syndrome
  • fetal alcohol syndrome​
Pro bono community resources & support
  • dentists, doctors, medications
  • childcare & respite
  • mental health providers
  • early start intervention referrals

​Legal advice & advocacy
  • court rights and pointers
  • caregiver information form
  •  de facto forms
  •  prospective adoptive parent form
Assistance serving as a member of the child's welfare team
  • support at team decision meetings
  • school resources, tutoring, and IEP guidance
  • visitation and interaction with birth parents
  • working with your social worker
            
Grief counseling for separation & loss
  • for the children
  • for the caregiver


839 W. San Marcos Blvd. | San Marcos, CA  92078  |  T: 760-744-2240 |  F: 760-744-3209  |   EMAIL
​© 2022 Straight From the Heart | All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | 501(c)(3) non-profit organization | Tax ID: 33-0883050
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  • Home
  • About
    • Our Story
    • Foster Care
    • In the News
  • Programs
    • Court Forms
    • Kid Pack Room
    • Support & Training
  • Store
  • Donate
    • Ways to Donate
    • Stories of Generosity
  • Contact