To become an adoptive or foster parent, previous parenting experience is desired - but not required. The most important qualifications are reportedly being warm and tolerant and having a sense of commitment to helping others by providing a nurturing environment for a child in need.
The Louisiana Department of Social Services Home Development Unit will hold an orientation meeting for prospective foster and adoptive parents on Oct. 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the St. Tammany Parish Library, 555 Robert Blvd., Slidell. To be eligible to foster or adopt a child, people must be between 21 and 65 years of age; they may be single, married, divorced or widowed. They may own or rent their home and may live in an apartment, trailer or house. For additional information, call the Home Development Unit at 893-6363 or 1-800-256-1918.
Applicants are required to pass a criminal records check and must complete 10 sessions of training.
