Who are the children served by Walden Family Services?
Walden foster parents open their homes and hearts to children 0-18 who need out-of-home placement due to problems associated with abuse and neglect, because they have developmental disabilities, and/or are experiencing behavioral difficulties.

What is the role of a foster parent?
Foster parents provide a supportive, loving, stable family for children who, for a variety of reasons, cannot live with their birth parents. Foster parents work closely with Walden Family Services to reach the best possible outcome for their foster child(ren). This may range from preparing them for adoption or guardianship, enabling them to successfully reunify with their birth families/relatives, or perhaps caring for them until they turn 18 or are able to live independently.

How do I successfully become a foster parent?
Walden Family Services is a private, non-profit Foster Family Agency, licensed by the State of California to certify foster families, with offices in San Diego, Riverside/San Bernardino and Los Angeles County (Northridge and Lancaster). Certification is accomplished by attending a (free) series of training classes, and successfully completing home inspection and background check requirements and home visits with the Walden staff.

Can I afford to do this?
Yes! Foster parents receive a monthly reimbursement to feed, clothe and meet the material needs of the children placed in their care. Potential foster parents are required to have sufficient income to meet their own current living expenses prior to becoming certified.

Can I still work?
Yes! For working parents, arrangements must be made for your foster child to be supervised while you are at work.   This supplemental care can be through an individual daycare provider, after school program, or a fingerprinted individual over the age of 18, and in some instances 21.

Are there age limits for foster parents?
The minimum age for becoming a foster parent is 21. (Due to the older children served in San Diego County, the minimum age requirement is 23). No other age requirements exist as long as your health, energy and desire are appropriate. Retired foster parents are very welcome.

What if my foster child gets sick?
Medical and dental coverage is provided through the Medi-Cal program.

Can I be a single foster parent?
Yes! Walden strives to certify the best quality foster parents for the children we serve, in whatever home model that entails. Walden encourages anyone with a desire to become a foster parent to begin the certification process. Partners/spouses must attend all training sessions and complete the certification process with you.

Is my home large enough?
Until the age of five, two children of the same sex can share a room. Adults (18 years of age and older) may not share a room with anyone under the age of 18.

Do I have to be a home owner?
No! You can be a renter as long as the above requirements are met.