Foster Care/Adoption FAQ

Q: How do I get started to become a foster/adoptive parent?
A: Call us at our toll free number 888-922-5437 (KIDS) or email us at inquiries@billwilsoncenter.org. You can also attend a free, no-obligation Orientation at our San Jose office the first Thursday of each month from 6p-8p. Please RSVP to 888-922-5437 (KIDS).

Q: Where are you located?
A: We have two foster family offices to serve more of the Bay Area:

1671 The Alameda, Suite 201
San Jose, CA 95126

294 Green Valley Rd., Suite 308
Watsonville, CA 95076

Q: What counties or cities do you serve?
A: We serve Santa Clara County, Santa Cruz County, and San Mateo County. We also serve the cities of Fremont, Prunedale, Salinas, and Hollister. 

Q: Are there children waiting for homes now?
A: Yes. In California each year over 100,000 children are removed from their homes for various reasons of abuse and neglect. We have been placing children in foster care homes since 1984 and have an 85% success rate.

Q: What are the responsibilities of a foster care parent?
A: Foster care parents are responsible to provide a safe, stable and loving home. They are also responsible for transporting children to and from all of their appointments. Foster parents need to work together with their social worker to ensure that the child’s needs are being met. 

Q: What if I want to adopt a child?
A: You can adopt a child from the foster care system. Our agency is able to search for children from the entire state of California. Attend an Orientation to learn more! 

Q: Do I need special training?
A: Yes. We provide a free, 23-hour training, “Parenting with Care and Skill”, that is designed to help parents understand the special needs of children in the child welfare system.

Q: When is training offered?
A: Training is offered four times per year. Our 2009 calendar is as follows:

Saturday sessions are held from 9a – 4p. The weekday session is from 6p – 8p.

Q: Do I need to own my own home?
A: No, renters are welcome. 

Q: I am single; can I become a foster parent?
A: Yes, we accept single, married, same-sex couples, and retirees. We work with people from all walks of life. 

Q: How do I pay for the child’s expenses? 
A: We offer a monthly payment from $800 up to $1,200 to help meet the child’s needs. 

Q: What would disqualify me? 
A: If you have a criminal record within the last year, we will not be able to work with you. If you have a criminal record that ever included child abuse, domestic violence or a crime with a weapon, we would not be able to work with you. Feel free to contact us for more details about your specific case.