Media Contacts:
Ryan Stewart, Oklahoma Human Services, DDS Communications Coordinator
405-549-9188
Ryan.Stewart@okdhs.org
foster care parents, Oklahoma Human Services’ Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) division is hosting a webinar to educate interested individuals about the role.
Specialized foster care parents support individuals ages three and older who receive DDS waiver services. They are paid to be a “professional parent” and are supported by a DDS case manager, foster care specialist, and any other professional providers working with the individual in their home. Experience with people with intellectual or developmental disabilities can be helpful but is not required.
“We’re seeking compassionate Oklahomans who are eager to make a difference,” said Beth Scrutchins, DDS division director at Oklahoma Human Services. “Specialized foster care parents play an important role in making sure every person in our state gets the attention and care they deserve.”
To become a specialized foster care parent, applicants must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be able to stay at home as a “professional parent”
- Submit information for background checks and fingerprints
- Complete training prior to approval as an SFC parent and yearly training thereafter
- Participate in a home study
- Provide an individual bedroom for each person served
The webinar is on May 16 at 12 p.m. on Microsoft Teams and will provide an overview of the role including requirements, benefits and a question-and-answer session. Registration is required, but the webinar is free.
