Bethany Christian Services Grand Rapids
Being a foster parent is so much more than loving a child in your home. It’s also showing kindness to a family when they need it most.
It’s giving a child a safe place to land during a hard, scary time when they’re away from home. And it’s showing compassion to a parent who is likely overwhelmed, scared, and without a lot of support.
It’s helping a child stay connected to the only home they’ve ever known, in whatever way it’s safe to do so, and cheering on a family that’s living out a comeback story.
At Bethany, our heart beats for family. We want to see families strong, supported, and together. But we know there are times when families face challenges—and children need care.
That’s why we’re seeking foster parents who believe in families too.
Services and information
- Traditional Foster Care
- Specialized / Therapeutic Care
- Emergency Foster Care
- Respite Foster Care
- Adoption
Requirements to become a foster parent
Parents can access the Michigan Foster Care Portal (MFCP), which is a tool that helps expedite licensure. The portal can track progress and list the next steps a foster parent needs to take. The MFCP also contains FAQs and helpful guides for parents.
In addition to online tools, foster families also receive some financial support. How much they receive depends on the child's age and needs. Parents may also be entitled to additional reimbursement that covers care costs.
Plus, foster families can access many local and state-wide support organizations and advocacy groups. These groups provide resources, answer questions, and are happy to help form connections between foster parents.
Your foster care agency is always there if you have questions or concerns. Their goal is to ensure the child's well-being and assist parents through the fostering process and beyond.
Another path you might want to consider is co-parenting with the birth parents. The end goal in most foster cases is to reunite a child with their parents or primary caregiver. You'll work with the birth parents anyway to set up visitations, and co-parenting can make your job easier.
Working further with the birth parents can also make the entire fostering process less stressful for a child. They won't feel as if they have to "choose" between homes and families.
Ratings and Reviews
Average user rating
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Sep 15, 2023
Totally blew me off as I tried to reach a HR staff member for a job inquiry. I left numerous messages, & stopped by in person, but my efforts were futile. After I read the reviews, I was mortified at how low it was. I think if Google has negative stars they would get a few. I'm glad I'm not seeking any family services given the feedback here. They have a huge list of staff members, and no one can care less about public perception.....this is beyond sad coming from a so-called Christian network. Given the apathy, u would think something more nafarious is going on like the Georgia Tann story. This organization definitely needs Jesus.
Mar 07, 2023
I had an interview here for a case manager position and they didn't get a hold of me the next week even after telling me they would. No big deal, I took it as they weren't interested and moved on. But then they called me a month and a half later asking if I was interested in the position (trying to set up an interview). I told them that I already had an interview there and was moving forward with other opportunities. 15 minutes after this conversation, I recieved an email thanking me for my time but they decided to move forward with other applicants as a sad attempt to cover up their tracks. Very unprofessional, quite surprised by all this honestly.
Feb 17, 2023
0 stars really. They tell us birth parents that they will help counsel us and do activities but they either stopped or pick certain girls that give the good girl vibe. I've been a birthmom for 11yrs an they dropped counseling multiple times on me and my adoption is a positive story. I'm not sure if they do the birthmothers day anymore as I they haven't kept me in the loop like they did at the beginning. Once you have afew years under you're belt of being a birthmom they just drop you. Feels like that to me atleast.
Jan 04, 2023
I would give zero stars if I could. Agency lacks confidentiality. Please be careful when considering them. Learn from our mistake of simply filling out a reference form with honesty.
Jul 17, 2022
I am only giving one star because after reading these reviews and testaments about this service I can't help but ask Bethany CHRISTIAN services WHAT they have done IF anything with these valid complaints?