Contact Kaylee Beltinck kbeltinck@listeningear.com or 989-773-6904 x 3240

We currently have homes in Isabella, Gratiot, Montcalm, Osceola, Clare and Grand Traverse Counties. We are looking to expand into Gladwin, Mecosta, and Midland Counties. In truth we are willing to drive over an hour for the right home.

: The average age of our youth is 12. We have youth as young as 8 and as old as 17.

You just need to have sufficient income to cover your expenses. Listening Ear provides compensation for placements.

No. We have single parents who do an amazing job of fostering. However, you do have to have the time to devote to a child?

No. You just need adequate, safe space and sufficient income.

Yes. The home needs to be in good repair, have working utilities including running water, toilet, furnace, etc. and enough space for the youth to have privacy.

Not necessarily. It depends on the length of time it occurred, the circumstances, and what changes or services occurred to correct the issue(s)

No, individuals of all faiths—or no religious affiliation—are welcome to become foster parents. There is no requirement to belong to a specific religion or attend religious services. However, if you foster a child whose faith differs from your own, you must be respectful of their beliefs and willing to support their right to practice their religion. While you may indicate preferences during the placement process, foster parents are not permitted to require a child to participate in religious activities or services against their will.

Ideally, each child would have their own room and space to retreat to. However, two children of the same sex can share a bedroom if they have their own bed and personal space.

There are home inspections, I-CHATs, environmental inspections (for non-city water/sewage), fingerprints, motor vehicle checks, Central Registry checks, State and National Sex Offender checks.

: At our agency, we are committed to providing comprehensive, ongoing support to foster families. Our dedicated foster care workers are accessible through a 24/7 crisis line – including weekends and holidays – ensuring you are never without assistance. In addition, we maintain consistent contact through weekly phone check-ins and in-home visits two to four times per month.
We understand that fostering can be both rewarding and challenging. That’s why we are here to walk alongside you – offering resources, training, and mediation support whenever needed. With our agency, you’re never alone in your journey.

Contact Kaylee Beltinck at kbeltinck@listeningear.com or 989-773-6904 extension 3240 to set up an orientation.