It’s often said that home is where the heart is, and the local United Methodist Children’s Home is looking for a few good parents.

“We need foster parents,” said Keri McCo-llough, a social worker for the non-profit. “Chil-dren come to us through the Department of Human Resources.”

McCollough said some of the children come from abusive homes, while others have developmental issues, like ADHD.

“We’re looking for people to take these children into their own private homes,” she said. “But our ultimate goal is reunifications with families.”

McCollough said a social worker visits the children on a weekly basis to check on them.

“We teach basic living skills, behavior education, personal hygiene, and work on parenting skills,” she said.

Additionally, McCollough said biological parents with drug abuse issues have the opportunity to seek treatment to combat their substance abuse.

Currently, there are three children in care of foster parents through the organization in the Andalusia office, she said.

There are some requirements that potential foster parents will have to meet, she said.

• Prospective parents must be at least 25 years or older;

• Be able to pass a criminal background check;

• Have a valid driver’s license;

• Have proper insurance, such as homeowner’s and vehicle;

• Home must meet certain standards;

• Prove that you have an established income to support the needs of the children.

“We’re really looking for good families that can provide these children with normal family atmospheres,” McCollough said.

Adoption is also available.

For more information or to become a foster parent, call 334-222-8828 or 1-877-832-8624, or visit their website at www.umch.net.