Foster-Adopt and Foster Care Services in
Barstow, CA
Choosing to become a foster parent changes both your life and a child’s. At Knotts Family Agency (KFA), we understand the importance of this decision and the questions you may have about caring for youth in the community. With over 30 years of experience serving San Bernardino County, we bring a unique approach that puts you first. Our “We go to you” philosophy means personalized support is always within reach.
A Partner for Your Mission
The High Desert area creates a real need for foster families who can support children close to home. You may be considering adoption centers in Barstow, CA, but concerns about the process might be holding you back.
KFA serves families throughout the High Desert area through our regional support centers. Unlike traditional foster family agencies that treat children as their primary clients, we identify you, the foster parent, as our primary client. Our Parent Delight philosophy means we treat foster parents as true partners, with the support, respect, and guidance they need to care for children well.
Ways to Help Children in Barstow
California’s foster care services offer multiple pathways to serve children.
Traditional foster care involves providing temporary, safe housing for children who cannot live with their biological families. As a foster parent, you offer stability, love, and guidance. KFA equips you with trauma-informed training and ongoing support.
In California, the term “resource parent” describes parents approved for both fostering and adopting. Approved caregivers are often called resource parents because the approval process can prepare families for both fostering and adoption. Learn how to become a resource parent today.
As a respite care provider in Barstow, CA, you offer short-term care — typically no more than 14 nights — giving regular foster families needed breaks. You decide how many nights you’re available and receive the same reimbursement rates as resource parents.
How We Support Foster Parents in Barstow
Our approach to foster care sets us apart from other agencies in San Bernardino County.
You, the Parent, Are Our Primary Client
When foster parents are happy, supported, and equipped with the right tools, the children in their care thrive. This parent-centered philosophy means you receive respect, personalized attention, and genuine partnership throughout your fostering journey. The parents we have worked with share that KFA’s support helped them feel more prepared and respected.
24/7 Assistance and Steadfast Advocacy
Emergencies don’t keep office hours, and neither does our support. KFA provides dedicated personnel available around the clock. We serve as your advocate, ensuring your voice is heard in the placement process and that you’re considered for placements matching your strengths.
Generous, Transparent Reimbursements
Financial concerns shouldn’t prevent qualified families from fostering. KFA practices complete transparency and provides monthly reimbursements tailored to each child’s needs. We offer an average of $50 more than state-required minimums. Through specialized foster care programs, qualified foster parents may receive up to $6,000 monthly for children requiring intensive services.
Our “Get Paid to Get Trained” program further provides stipends to foster parents who complete designated training programs.
Specialized Counseling and VIP Wellness Perks for Parents
KFA is a foster family agency near Barstow, CA, providing resource parents with exclusive access to specialized psychologists and counselors. Our Very Important Parent program offers concierge services, spa treatments, massage therapy, and nutritional guidance.
FAQs
We’ve worked with families throughout San Bernardino County. Here are common concerns.
What if I Can’t Handle Challenging Child Behaviors?
Children in foster care have often experienced trauma, which can manifest in challenging behaviors. KFA provides specialized training in behavioral management and trauma-informed care. You receive round-the-clock support from experienced social workers and access to child behavioral specialists.
What About the Financial Costs?
Foster care should never create financial hardship. KFA ensures you receive appropriate monthly reimbursements reflecting the child’s needs. Additional support may be available for children with intensive needs and for parents who take qualifying training. Many resource parents find that financial support covers fostering expenses.
What Support Is Available When It’s Hard to Say Goodbye?
This is a common concern. KFA offers counseling services and support groups to help you navigate these feelings. The attachments you form can create lasting positive impacts, even if children reunify with their biological families.
Is My House Big Enough and Is the Process Too Complex?
KFA conducts personalized home assessments and offers clear guidance. Homes need to be safe, clean, and welcoming — not large or luxurious. Our Resource Family Approval Assistance Fund helps with modifications up to $450. We streamline the approval journey and provide personalized assistance.
Your Local Resource Guide
Barstow’s unique position in the High Desert creates specific opportunities within the local foster care community.
The Specific Needs of Children in the Barstow Area
San Bernardino County has a significant need for resource families willing to care for sibling groups. The region also needs bilingual homes, particularly Spanish-speaking families who can provide culturally-sensitive care.
Barstow’s desert location presents unique considerations. Summer temperatures can be extreme, and transportation to appointments, court dates, and family visits requires planning. The community’s high poverty rate, which is almost double the national average, can also contribute to demand for foster homes.
Our Partnerships with San Bernardino County Family Services and Courts
KFA maintains working relationships with San Bernardino County Children and Family Services, allowing efficient system navigation. These connections allow us to better support families as they move through the foster care process. Our established presence means we understand local protocols.
Connecting You to Barstow-Based Support Networks and Therapists
Beyond internal services, KFA connects resource parents with community resources throughout San Bernardino County. We maintain relationships with local therapists and behavioral health professionals. Barstow Community College offers Foster & Kinship Care Education Programs at no cost.
Become a Foster Family in Barstow, CA
Starting your fostering journey requires willingness to learn, compassion for children, and partnership with an agency committed to your success.
Step 1: Request Your Application
Contact our team at 805-507-3076 or through our website to request your application. KFA offers one-on-one consultations at our office or in your home.
Step 2: Schedule a Personal Appointment with Our Team
After reviewing materials, schedule an appointment with one of our Parent Success Specialists. We’ll discuss the process, address concerns, and outline next steps. Our “We go to you” philosophy means we meet at locations convenient for you.
Local children need caring families like yours. Contact us today and start this journey together.
