Bethany Christian Services of Southwest Michigan
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
- 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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Jun 03, 2023
Does not answer questions on social media.
Oct 06, 2022
Go through a different agency. My second time around as a foster/adopt home and I should have known better the 1st time.
Oct 08, 2020
I feel that this organization is all about adopting the children they are not about reuniting families together. They are not trained well and definitely lie n stretch the truth for there benefit..... I will not recommend this place to anyone.
Mar 15, 2020
Bethany gave me and my husband our family back. Karah is an AWESOME foster care worker. Thanks for everything
Feb 18, 2019
Horrible place, they kept me from seeing my kids. Made false accusations saying my kids didn't want to see me. Violated my rights and my kids right. Accused me of being on drug but it was a symptom of a health condition. Workers are liars. They treat birth parents like garbage. There's definitely nothing christen about these people.