Big Bear, Ca, May 26, 2011, 12:00pm – Lutheran Social Services is currently trying to find foster families in the Big Bear area. According to Eileen Hofer, Contract Compliance Officer with Lutheran Social Services, “there are currently none in the area… we are hoping to find interested families.” Hofer told KBHR that if Lutheran Social Services can find interested families, then a representative from Arrowhead Foster Family Agency will come to Big Bear and conduct training for interested parties. “The issues with the lack of families in Big Bear is that when children need to be removed from their homes, they are moved to other communities,” said Hofer. “It is often best for kids to remain in their own communities, to minimize the already difficult transitions.” The Arrowhead Foster Family Agency has the following criteria to become a foster parent: interested parties must be finger printed, must have current CPR, first aid, and water safety certification, must take a physical exam and have a negative TB test, provide current California drivers license and DMV printout, proof of auto insurance, working phone and answering machine, go through a home study evaluation, complete the Arrowhead Foster Family Application, attend an agency orientation, attend additional 14 hours of training by the Arrowhead staff, and have a willingness to drive foster children to necessary appointments. Hofer also added that it takes a special person to become a foster parent. For more information on the process contact Lori Foust at 866-5070 ext 222.
