The Covington County Department of Human Resources (DHR) will be hosting an unpaid 10-week training course that will begin in October, for those who are looking to become foster parents.

Beginning October 2 classes will be offered every Monday between 6 and 9 p.m. in the Covington County DHR’s office, 1515 MLK Jr. Expressway, Andalusia, AL. The participants will learn how to foster and the best ways to look after children and adolescents who have suffered abuse or neglect.

Martha Kelley, foster parent co-lead, and Lesa Rathel director of Covington County DHR, will guide the class.

“This training provides prospective foster parents a strong base to offer love and care to children and young people who are in foster homes,” said Covington County DHR Director Lesa Rathel. “We are extremely grateful to all the members of this community who are willing to offer their hearts and homes to help their children and youth in this way.”

South-central Alabama has a huge need for foster parents Mrs. Rathel said. Covington County has approximately 50 children and teens who are in foster care.

“Our aim is to keep foster kids near to their families so that they don’t lose the support and love of their family, friends and teachers they have come to know and are able to trust,” Rathel said. “We recommend anyone who is who are interested in foster care to come to our class and to join us with our other foster families across the region to in achieving this goal.”

The free course is available to anyone who is interested in becoming a foster parent that meets these criteria:

  • At minimum 19 years old.
  • The ability to create the safety and comfort for children.
  • A home that is in compliance with The Alabama Minimum Standards for Foster Family Homes.
  • A house with enough room for a child and their belongings.
  • Every adult who live in the household are able to go through an extensive background check, including a criminal history background check.

Please contact Lesa Rathel at 334-427-7900 or lesa.rathel@dhr.alabama.gov for more information.

The article DHR will offer a free foster parenting classes starting in October was first published at The Andalusia Star-News.