Respite Families
Join Our Mission as a Respite Family
It’s everyday life. And yet, in a moment when it’s needed most, it becomes something extraordinary.
Reach out
Respite Families welcome children in foster care into their own home — sometimes a night, sometimes longer, with each stay planned between your family and our childcare team.
It’s a practical way to come alongside our Community Foster Parents in the everyday work of raising the children in their home.
To become a respite family, you’ll complete the process to become a licensed foster parent. Big Oak Ranch will walk with you every step of the way, offering guidance and encouragement throughout.
Being a respite family is a meaningful way to step in and support families and our children.
Role Models We Can Trust
“Respite families give our foster parents a chance to have a breather, reset, and make sure they’re healthy to continue in the work God has called them to do.”
Kyle Thompson, Community Director
We would love for you to join us in being part of the solution for children who need a chance. By opening your home to the children our Community Foster Parents are raising, you serve as a lifeline to our families and help them thrive.
Become a Respite FamilyFrequently Asked Questions
Is the licensing process for foster families and respite families different?
The licensing process for foster families and respite families is the same, except that foster families are licensed to care for our children in our Big Oak Ranch Community homes, and respite families are licensed to open their own home to our children.
What training do I need to do?
Respite families complete the foundations training and a home study. We would license you in your own home rather than one of our Community foster care homes to only provide temporary care for children in the Communities. Then, you are considered a fully-licensed foster parent.
How long can a child stay with a respite family?
There isn’t a set number of days. Your family and our childcare team arrange each stay, one at a time.
Do respite care providers get paid?
Respite families receive a state stipend to offset the cost of caring for a child. The amount depends on the time the child is in respite care. Big Oak Ranch does not take state or federal funds.
Can someone watch one of our children in foster care without it being considered respite care?
Yes, someone with a background check can serve as a child sitter for up to 72 hours without being licensed.
Can a foster family with DHR (or another CPA) transfer their license to Big Oak Ranch?
Yes, foster families already licensed through any other agency in Alabama can transfer their license to Big Oak Ranch.
Provide Support
Interested in Being a respite family?Learn more about what it means to serve our children in foster care.