A free 10-week course for prospective foster parents starts Oct. 9 in Newton.

Offered by Saint Francis Community Services, the course is designed to help persons make informed decisions about becoming family for children in foster care or adoption programs. The training is required by the state to become a foster family.

The introductory class begins Oct. 9 at 6 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 2001 Windsor Dr., in Newton.

Persons interested in registering for the class, or in simply learning more about becoming a foster parent, may go online to www.fostercare-ks.org or call (866) 999-1599 toll free.