By Tyra Jackson

The Selma Times-Journal

Children in Dallas County need a home.

Dallas County Department of Human Resources will hold an orientation for potential foster or adoptive parents Thursday Feb. 12 at the Dallas County Department of Human Resources, located at 200 Samuel O. Moseley Drive.

The information session is open to the public.

Participants will receive information regarding children who need homes and application requirements.

Currently, there are a total of 56 children in Selma who are in foster care.

The children range in age from infancy to 20 years old. Thirty-four girls and 22 boys are presently in foster care.

Approval for both foster and adoptive parents requires individuals to be at least 19 years of age. Applicants can be single or married, but they must be married for at least one year. Both spouses must meet all qualifications. In addition, candidates must be in good physical health for the child. No minimum income level is required, but potential parents must prove they can maintain their households, and provide for a child.

If qualified, potential parents will complete group preparation and selection (GPS) training.

GPS is broken down into 10 sessions, in which trainees will complete a total of 30 hours of training. Three-hour sessions will be held at the agency on Tuesdays from 6 p.m.- 9 p.m.

“The purpose is to enhance a person’s parenting skills to prepare them for the unique needs of children who’ve been abused and neglected,” Dudley said.

Foster parent Linda Cook said the orientation meeting helps those who are uncertain about adopting or fostering a child, make a conscious decision.

Also, she said the GPS training could assist anyone who wants to become a better parent.

“The training teaches you there is a partnership. You not only partner with the agency, but the families as well. It’s a group effort. If you’re willing to work with others, then you can become a foster parent,” Cook said.

The fact she is able to help a family puts a smile on Cook’s face.

“It makes me feel good I can help in that capacity,” she said. “Fostering a child helps reunite families. You become a second home for that child to visit.”