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

The course will be offered beginning Sept. 18, with classes held each Sunday afternoon from 2-5 p.m. for 10 weeks. Classes will be held at Franklin County DHR, 737 Highway 48, Russellville.

“We currently have 30 foster homes in Franklin County; unfortunately most of them are already full,” explained LeiLani Eady-Johnson, who coordinates foster parent licensing Franklin County. “There is still a need for caring individuals to open their hearts and their homes and become licensed foster parents.”

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 or to sign up, contact Johnson at 256-331-5940.