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Your Journey: Health and Safety
Additional Needs for Home Study Preparation: Building Blocks for Success
Welcome to the next pit stop on your journey! We're thrilled to begin laying the foundation for your home study, a crucial step in the roadmap to becoming a foster parent. Get ready to gather the necessary documents and complete appointments, ensuring a smooth ride toward licensure.
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Think of these documents as the building blocks of your foster care journey, each one playing a vital role in shaping your future as a foster parent. From medical reports to background checks, we'll help you navigate every step of the way, just like expertly maneuvering through a construction zone.
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While some paperwork may feel like navigating a maze, rest assured, your FHAS is here to guide you through. Think of us as your GPS, providing turn-by-turn directions and offering support whenever you need it.
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Your commitment to completing these tasks promptly will help us expedite the home study process, getting you one step closer to opening your heart and home to a child in need. Remember, every document you gather is a milestone reached, bringing you closer to making a difference in a child's life.
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If you have any questions or need assistance, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to ensure your journey to becoming a foster parent is as smooth and rewarding as possible.
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Thank you for entrusting us with this part of your journey. Together, let's build a brighter future for children in Tennessee.
Health & Safety Checklist
TN DCS Medical Self-report: This report is completed by/for everyone living in the household, regardless of age, and provides information about your health history and any ongoing medical conditions.
TB Skin Test: All household members (applicants and their children) must undergo a TB skin test. Check with your health department, minute clinics, or doctor's office for completion.
Medical Matters: Download and print the applicable forms for your household and have them completed by a medical professional, including an ink signature. Ensure one form is completed for each individual in the home. Submit completed forms to your FHAS.
References
Contact List: Each applicant needs one relative reference and three non-relative references. Provide names, phone numbers, and email addresses for each reference. References will be contacted with further instructions for completing a reference letter on your behalf.​
Home Study Preparedness Checklist: Additional Application Requirements to be Completed
Home Information
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Family Photo: Snap a family photo (pets included) to capture the love and warmth of your home.
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Exterior Showcase: Take pictures of your home's front and back to show off its cozy charm.
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Interior Snapshot: Capture every nook and cranny of your home, including bathrooms, to showcase its welcoming atmosphere.
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Emergency Plans: Share your fire evacuation plan and ensure emergency contacts are readily available.
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Home Details: Provide the total square footage of your home and a list of the zoned schools for your residence.
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Insurance Policy: Submit copies of your homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, including expiration dates.
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Placement Preferences: Your FHAS will schedule a time, close to the formal home study, to discuss placement preferences.
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Resident Information & Trainings
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Social Security Cards and Birth Certificates - Provide copies for all household members.
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Marriage License, Divorce Decrees, Adoption Decrees, Death Certificates, Military Discharge Orders - Submit copies of each, as applicable.
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Car Insurance and Registration - Copies needed with expiration dates for each vehicle at the home.
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TN KEY Pre-Work, Roadwork - Provided by DCS trainers, be sure to send a copy for each applicant.
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TN KEY Completion Certificate(s) - This will be received after the MAP meeting, which is scheduled after all other trainings have been completed.
​Completing these documents and appointments is crucial for the home study process. Your Foster Home Acquisition Specialist (FHAS) will guide you through each step and provide further instructions as needed.
