Training Registration Fees – Registration fees for agency-approved training may be reimbursed if prior approval is obtained.

Travel Costs/Lodging/Meals – Expenses for travel, lodging and meals incurred while attending approved agency-related training may be reimbursed.

Basic Water Rescue Courses and Swimming Lessons – All foster parents who have a home with a swimming pool, waterfront property, or located near a large body of water are required to complete a Basic Water Rescue Course within the first year of approval of their foster home. This includes those who reside in subdivisions or apartment complexes that have a community pool on the property. In addition, any children placed in the home, age three years and older, must be placed in a swimming class within one year of placement. The class must be taught by a certified instructor and, if necessary, re-taken until the child learns to swim. Water safety training expenses are reimbursable.

CPR and First Aid Training – DFCS foster parent applicants are required to complete CPR and First Aid training prior to earning final approval and must keep these certifications current while serving as a foster parent. This required training is reimbursable. The caregiver should discuss potential costs for all training prior to registration to ensure the courses are eligible and will count toward continuing education credits.