The Franklin County Department of Human Resources will once again offer the required training course to become a licensed foster parent – and everyone with a heart for a children is encouraged to consider taking part.

The course will be offered beginning Feb. 20, with classes held each Sunday afternoon from 2-5 p.m. through April 24. Classes will be held at the DHR, 737 Highway 48, Russellville.

“We are just really in need of some good people who would be willing to open their homes,” explained LeiLani Johnson, who coordinates foster parent licensing Franklin County.

Licensed foster parents must be 19 years old or older. They must pass a criminal background check, and background checks are also required for every member of the household 19 and older.

Potential foster parents must also obtain clearance of the state central registry on child abuse and neglect, as must all household members 14 years and older.

Foster parents must also have family stability and a regular source of income that meets the family’s financial needs. If married, foster parents must have been married at least one year; being married is not, however, a requirement.

For more information, contact Johnson at 256-331-5940. People can sign up between now and Feb. 20 or just show up for the first class.