Foster Care Licensing

Foster Care is a licensed family setting providing a safe and secure home environment that promotes well-being. Foster families play a critical role by caring for the adult or child and providing support.

Want to Become a Foster Parent?

Becoming a foster parent is a meaningful way to support children and families in our community. Foster parents provide safe, stable, nurturing homes for children who are unable to remain with their parents for a period of time. If you are interested in becoming a licensed foster parent in Minnesota, the first step is to apply directly through Mower County Health & Human Services. Our licensing worker will guide you through each step of the process. 

Foster Parents

  • Must reside in Mower County.
  • Must be 21 years or older.
  • May be married or single.
  • May be a renter or homeowner and the home must met safety and space standards.
  • Must have the ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment.
  • Must complete required training.
  • Household members pass a background study, which can include:
    • Review of specific records of the person being studied by the Department of Human Services.
    • Review of criminal history information maintained by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
    • Review records of substantiated maltreatment of vulnerable adults and minors from investigations completed by counties' adult protection and child protection staff and by the Minnesota Department of Human Services and the Minnesota Department of Health.
    • Additional records are also reviewed in some cases.

Steps to Become a Licensed Foster Parent in Mower County

  1. Contact Mower County Health & Human Services - Foster Care Licensing (Ask to speak with Sarah H.)
  2. Complete and submit the Minnesota DHS Foster Care Application Form to Sarah H. (information below).
  3. Foster Care Licensing will reach out to you with the next steps in the intake/orientation process which include:
    • Completing background studies for all adult household members.
    • Create policies and procedures.
    • Participate in home study interviews and home safety inspections
    • Complete required foster parent orientation and training.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • How old do I need to become a foster parent?  You must be at least 21 years old
  • Do I need to own my home? No, renters and homeowners may both become licensed.
  • Can single individuals be foster parents? Yes
  • Do foster parents choose the age or number of children? Preferences are discussed during licensing; placements depend on county needs.
  • How long does licensing take? typically, several months depending on paperwork, home-study, training, and background checks.
  • Is training required? Yes, before licensure and annually afterward.

For more information, contact:

Mower County Health & Human Services - Foster Care Licensing

Sarah H. (Licensor)

Email: Sarahh@co.mower.mn.us

Phone: 507-440-8849

Address: 201 1st St NE, Suite 18, Austin, MN 55912

Applications may be mailed, emailed, or delivered in person.