---

When the falling leaves and autumn season lead us to anticipate the upcoming holidays, our thoughts turn to pumpkin pie and people and things we treasure. Come Thanksgiving, our special remembrances often include fond appreciation of our families. And as we recall our blessings we are especially thankful for children.

There are some families who offer temporary care to children when those children cannot live at home. These relatives, close friends or foster families support the children and their families, with a goal to have the children return to their families.

Have you ever wondered what it would take to be one of these families who provide temporary care to your community’s children? Often individuals, who are thankful for all they have, and want to share this with others, are foster parents. These individuals have met with a representative of Chisago County Human Services and have successfully completed a licensing process before any children come to live with them. The licensing process includes several components which include personal background checks, home safety planning and inspections, and a family interview. Foster parents also receive orientation, on-going training and support from social workers. Contrary to some beliefs, you do not have to be a homeowner or be married to be a foster parent.

This Thanksgiving, when you consider all of the things you are thankful for, remember our children. For more information about child foster parenting, please contact Chisago County Human Services at 651-213-0324 or 1-888-234-1128, ext. 324.

---