Foster Care Support in Georgia: How Much is the Stipend?

At the moment, there are over 11,000 children in care throughout the state of Georgia. That’s thousands of children who urgently need a place to call home — and the foster parents who make that happen.

Stepping into the role of a foster parent offers a unique opportunity to make a profound difference in a child's life by providing them with the stability, affection, and nurturing environment they need to thrive.

Although becoming a foster parent is rewarding, it comes with its set of financial considerations. The costs associated with raising a child — covering necessities like food, clothing, educational materials, and activities — can add up quickly.

• To support foster parents with these expenses, Georgia, like many other states, provides a monthly stipend.
• This financial assistance is designed to ensure children in foster care have access to essential resources for a well-rounded and healthy upbringing.
• However, it's important to understand that this stipend isn't meant to be income — it’s a form of support to help cover the child's needs.

Let’s dive into Georgia’s monthly stipend and what you need to know. 

What Influences the Foster Care Stipend in Georgia?

The foster care stipend in Georgia is influenced by two main factors:

• The age of the child in care - Georgia’s stipend provided to foster parents changes depending on how old the child is.

• • • As children grow and age, their needs change — and the costs often grow, too!
    • Older children and teens may require different forms of care and resources compared to younger children, and the stipend changes based on these needs.

• Their specific needs - Some children in care are living with special medical needs that may require different treatment plans and cost a little more. 

• • • Foster parents in Georgia caring for children with complex medical conditions may receive a higher daily stipend. 
    • For example, Mentor Foster Care helps children in therapeutic foster care grow and thrive. 
    • This additional money helps with the necessary care and attention for a better quality of life!

Stipend Rates in Georgia

In Georgia, the stipend rates are paid on a per diem basis — however, the exact amount will depend on the organization you partner with and the factors discussed in the section above. 

• There aren’t any set amounts for parents in Georgia — to get the most accurate rates, your best bet is to discuss this with a foster care organization or your case worker!
• They can set you on the right path and let you know how much your per diem will be based on the needs of a child in care. 

Additional Foster Care Financial Support in Georgia

For foster parents in Georgia, there are additional financial support options outside of the per diem. 

The best example of this is the Georgia Families 360 program — this program provides better access to healthcare services for children in care of all ages. 

Georgia also offers a clothing allowance, which is important — clothing costs can add up quickly, especially for growing toddlers and teens. It costs anywhere from $800 to $1,200 a year to clothe a teen with thoughtful budgeting, so every little bit helps.

For other financial support information, don’t be afraid to ask your organization or case worker. For example, Mentor Foster Care, a part of Sevita’s companies, offers foster parents many different supports, including:

• Fire extinguishers
• Lockboxes
• CO detectors
• Help with the cost of first aid/CPR courses
• Help with the cost of animal vaccinations

All as part of helping prepare foster parents for their home inspections and to help meet the guidelines set by the state.

Want to Change a Child's Life but Not Sure Where to Start?

If you're in Georgia and looking to make a difference, you don’t have to start your journey alone.

Get the support you need every step of the way with The Beginners Guide to Foster Care. You’ll get an understanding of foster care basics, actionable tips to connect with children in care, and much more.

Mentor Foster Care also operates in many locations throughout the state, including:

• Mentor Foster Care in Albany, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Atlanta, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Augusta, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Columbus, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Commerce, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Savannah, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Valdosta, GA
• Mentor Foster Care in Warner Robins, GA 

Get your free guide today!