When might a minor be determined eligible for long-term foster care?

A minor may be determined eligible for long-term foster care primarily when there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. This situation indicates that the child cannot safely remain in their home environment due to risk factors that compromise their well-being. In such cases, the welfare of the child takes precedence, and appropriate interventions, including placement in long-term foster care, may be necessary to ensure a safe and stable living situation.

Factors such as parental requests or the child's age may influence care decisions, but they do not by themselves establish eligibility for foster care programs aimed at protecting minors experiencing harm. Similarly, a minor's competence to make decisions is an important consideration but does not directly relate to the need for foster care based on safety concerns.