Welcome HCJFS Foster Families!

Agape for Youth, Inc was recently informed of the decision by Hamilton County JFS to have their foster families transfer to public or private agencies of their choice. In behalf of Agape for Youth, we embrace and celebrate this opportunity to build upon the relationships already established with our foster families located throughout Southwestern Ohio.

Agape is very proud of our 20-year history of serving youth and families. Being a "positive, professional, and progressive team" has resulted in our being a leader in the advocacy for youth entrusted to our care. As you look over our responses to the FAQ's, please know that we believe in building lifetime relationships with your family through Agape's mission of serving. Finally, "excellence is not limited by distance; as it is driven by those with passion"! Welcome to Agape!

Frequently Asked Questions from Hamilton County Foster Parents

What is the transfer policy?
Agape for Youth follows the transfer procedures established in the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services rules, which are required by all agencies. We invite families thinking about transferring to meet with some of our staff to talk about questions you may have.

What are the steps to transfer?
The first step is to call us at 937-439-4406 ext. 13 or e-mail Pam Halter and we will contact you to talk about the transfer process. We provide information to those inquiring about a transfer to educate you about the services of Agape to help in your decision.

Does your agency provide support workers?
All support workers with Agape for Youth are Licensed Social Workers (LSW). Our licensed social workers meet with our families on average on a weekly basis providing case management services. Agape has LSW available an at all times though a 24 hour on-call service. Also on staff Agape has an Education Coordinator and Mentoring Services Coordinator.

Does your agency have a mentoring program for foster parents?
Agape has a Foster Parent Advisory Board comprised of licensed and retired foster parents which meets bi-monthly with the Executive Director and Support Services Coordinator. The role of the Foster Parent Advisory Board is to advocate for the families and children served by Agape. Our experienced foster parents also mentor newer foster parents to provide advice, support and guidance to families licensed with Agape. Foster parent mentors demonstrate special skills to provide the other foster parents with support to aid them in being successful in parenting the children in their care.

What is the training policy and when are trainings?
Per Ohio Department of Job of Family Services rule, those approved for family foster care must complete 40 hours of training during their 2 years recertification period. Families approved for treatment foster care must complete 60 hours of training during their two-year certification. Agape offers a variety of training topics during weekdays and weekends to accommodate the needs of our families. Agape provides foster parents with training stipends for their participation in training classes.

Will board rates remain the same as HCJFS?
Agape will advocate that all per diems stated by HCJFS remain the same.

When are per diem payments made?
Foster care per diem payments are made on the 15th of each month for the previous month's services. As example, service month December 1-31, payment will be made on January 15th. Both direct deposit and paper checks are available for your convenience.

What is your respite care policy?
Agape follows Ohio Department of Job and Family Service rules and the child placing agency requirements regarding respite use and procedures.

Can a foster parent provide respite care for a foster parent in another agency?
Yes, we are accepting of foster parents providing respite services for foster parents licensed through another agency. Agape considers the best interest of a child when making a plan for respite.

What is the alternative caregiver policy?
We work with the custodial agency of the youth and the foster family to determine appropriate alternative care.

Hamilton County assists foster parents with childcare fees if they do not qualify for childcare vouchers. Will your agency consider providing such assistance?
Families choosing to work with children who require childcare utilize their agreed upon per diem for those services.

Do you assist with transporting foster children to appointments if their foster parents are working or otherwise unable to transport them?
In special circumstances Agape will consider assisting with transportation. However, typically, it is the responsibility of the foster care provider and discussed previous to child placement. We work as a team to determine the parameters to of what the foster parent is willing and able to do.

Do you have local offices?
Agape for Youth's office is located south of Dayton Ohio, immediate access off Interstate 75. We have foster families located throughout southwest Ohio that are served by our agency.