Foster Family Services
Foster families open their homes and hearts to children who need a safe, stable place to grow. At Marsell, we support our foster families every step of the way—with training, mental health services, and resources to ensure both caregivers and children feel supported, seen, and empowered.
Why It Matters
A Safe Place to Land
Foster care plays a vital role in protecting children who can no longer remain safely in their homes. Every day, thousands of children in California enter the foster care system due to neglect, abuse, or family instability. When relatives aren’t available, foster families provide stability, care, and hope—often becoming the bridge to a brighter future. And throughout it all, we’re here to support both the children and the families who welcome them.
Thinking About Becoming a Foster Parent?
What You’ll Need to Get Started
Becoming a foster parent is a meaningful, life-changing commitment—and we’re here to guide you through every step. Below are the essential requirements to begin your journey.
1.
Application and Home Study
The first step in becoming a foster parent with Marsell is completing an application and participating in a home study. During this process, a licensed social worker will visit your home, meet with you and your family members, and conduct background checks to ensure a safe and supportive environment. The home must meet minimum personal, safety, and space requirements as outlined by law.
2.
Training and Certification
After your home study is complete, you’ll begin the training and certification process to become a foster parent. This includes a minimum of 12 hours of pre-approval caregiver training covering topics such as child development, behavior management, and the legal aspects of foster care. To maintain certification, resource families must complete at least 8 hours of ongoing training each year. Depending on the child’s specific needs, additional specialized training may also be required to help prepare you to provide the best possible care.
3.
Placement
After you are certified, Marsell’s Foster Family Services will work with you to find a suitable placement for a foster child. The organization takes into account the needs of both the child and the foster family to ensure that the placement is a good match.
4.
Ongoing Support
Once a foster child is placed in your home, Marsell provides ongoing support to ensure that you have the resources and skills you need to provide the best possible care. This includes regular check-ins with social workers, access to therapy and support services, and educational support for the foster child.
Through Guidance, Tools, and Trust
How Marsell Supports You
We are here to make sure every foster family feels empowered, informed, and supported. Our holistic approach means we’re investing in the wellbeing of both foster children and their caregivers—offering services to help you feel confident and connected.
Placement for Children
We provide temporary placement for foster children and ensure the placement is a good match for both the child and the foster family.
Professional Support and Training
Ongoing training and dedicated supervision help foster families navigate challenges and build strong connections.
Mental Health Services
A compassionate team of therapists and case managers work closely with each child to support emotional healing and growth.
Educational Assessments and Services
Comprehensive evaluations and educational support ensure every child can thrive at school and beyond.
Transportation
Reliable transportation is available for children to attend therapy, school, and appointments.
Medical Assessments
Marsell provides support in coordinating initial, follow-up, and reoccurring medical and dental assessments and appointments. All children in foster care in California are eligible for Medi-Cal health insurance.
Explore our Resources
Practical Advice for Meaningful Change
Mental Health
Black Mental Health in California: MarSell Wellness Center’s Support and Services
Read More
Mental Health
Discover the Benefits of Counseling in Ontario: Get Your Family the Support They Need!
Read MoreTake the Next Step
Whether you’re seeking guidance, mental health services, or just a helping hand, we’re here for you. Let us help you create the path that feels right for you. Reach out to schedule a consultation.