Foster Care Payments in North Carolina: Understanding the Stipends and More

Understanding the Stipend Structure in North Carolina

In North Carolina, the amount paid for foster care can vary significantly based on several factors, including the age of the child and the specific needs of the child. As of the most recent guidelines, the monthly payment rates for foster care are generally as follows:

Infants (0-5 years): Approximately $600 per month Children (6-12 years): Approximately $650 per month Teenagers (13-18 years): Approximately $700 per month

These rates are intended to cover the basic needs of the child, including food, clothing, and other necessities. In addition to these general stipends, there may be extra payments or subsidies available for children with special needs or those requiring additional support.

It is crucial to check with local county departments of social services for the most current rates and any specific programs or funding that may apply, as these can change and may have additional considerations based on individual circumstances.

The Financial Reality of Foster Care

While the stipends provided for foster care are meant to be supportive, they often do not fully cover the costs of providing for the children. In most situations, you end up in the red because the stipend reimbursement is typically less than the cost to provide for the kids. When state budgets are cut, foster care is usually one of the first areas to be affected.

The stipend serves as a supplemental fund and is never intended to cover every expense. While it does help cover many of the children's expenses, it doesn't cover everything. For example, when it comes to back-to-school shopping, I have two foster children, and I will receive a check for $125 each for a clothing allowance. This amount doesn't go far. I may be able to buy a couple of outfits, but the children need winter coats, shoes, winter boots, hats, gloves, sweaters, and jackets for the classroom, along with all the supplies they need for school.

Furthermore, special occasions like birthdays and Christmas are predominantly funded by the foster parent. For instance, in the state of Michigan, the state only provides $25 for Christmas, which is a very basic amount and would buy very little. Often, agencies keep this funding and use it for their own events or parties for all the children they represent.

Creating a Balanced Budget for Foster Children

To properly budget for the care and education of foster children, foster parents need to be prepared for additional funds beyond the stipend. Here are some tips to help manage expenses:

Accurate Records: Keep detailed records of all expenses related to the foster children. This helps in understanding where additional funds might be needed and to request any additional subsidies or funding. Prioritize Needs: Prioritize the needs of the children, such as clothing, food, and medical supplies. While basic necessities are covered by the stipend, additional items like school supplies and special needs equipment might require extra funding. Local Resources: Utilize local resources and programs that can provide additional support, such as food banks, clothing donations, and community organizations that offer assistance to foster families. Networking: Connect with other foster parents and agencies to share resources and possibly secure additional funding or initiatives.

By being proactive and well-informed, foster parents can better manage the financial challenges associated with providing for foster children.

Conclusion

Foster care is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. While the stipends provided are a valuable part of ensuring the basic needs of foster children are met, they are not always sufficient. It is important for foster parents to understand the financial realities and take steps to ensure the well-being of the children in their care.

By staying informed, utilizing resources, and prioritizing needs, foster parents can create a balanced and sustainable environment for the foster children. If you are considering becoming a foster parent or already providing care, it is crucial to consult with local authorities to ensure you are aware of all available resources and support systems.