Persons interested in exploring foster parenthood are encouraged to register for a upcoming 10-week course provided free of charge by Saint Francis Community Services, starting at 6 p.m. on Sept. 8, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 2101 Jackson Street, Great Bend.  
The course, Trauma Informed Partnering for Safety and Permanence-Model Approach to Partnerships in Parenting (TIPS-MAPP), is designed to help persons make an informed decision about becoming a resource family for children in foster care or adoption programs. The State of Kansas requires that all potential foster parents complete TIPS-MAPP training.
According to Saint Francis Foster Care Licensing Specialist Emily Durr, there is a significant need for new foster homes throughout Barton County. More than 40 Barton County children must stay in homes outside the county because there are not enough local families to accommodate them. These children urgently need about 24 new foster families to help house them closer to home.
The TIPS-MAPP course provides information and skill development for prospective foster parents and helps them gain a better understanding of the needs of children in foster care. Course participants also learn about resources for foster parents, parenting techniques, and available support services.
Persons interested in registering for the class or in simply learning more about becoming a foster parent are encouraged to go online to www.fostercare-ks.org or to call toll-free 866-999-1599.
Saint Francis Community Services is a donor-supported, faith-based, child and family, community-based service provider that has been a voice of hope for children and families since 1945. Our mission is to be an instrument of healing for children, youths, and families in spirit, mind, and body, so they live responsibly and productively with purpose and hope. For more information about Saint Francis, visit www.st-francis.org or call 1-800-423-1342.