Foster Care in the U.S.

Dismantling the myths of foster care

Myth: I don't have what it takes to become a foster parent

Fact: If you can provide love and stability, you're a perfect candidate. Flexibility and the ability to laugh are always helpful, as well.

Myth: Kids in foster care are "troubled"

Fact: The truth is, these are good kids facing difficult situations. With the support of a caring foster parent, these children can learn to address their emotions and behavior.

Myth: I can't afford to become a foster parent

Fact: You'll receive monthly reimbursements, which vary from state-to-state. The child's medical and dental care is paid through state Medicaid programs. We can help you find other local resources too.

Myth: It will be too emotionally difficult when foster children are reunited

Fact: Reunification is always the primary goal of foster care. Yet, it's important that you connect with the child and invest in their life. When the family is reunited, it's normal to expect a grieving process.

Myth: I need to be married and own a home to foster

Fact: If you're single or renting, you can foster.

Inspiring foster care stories

If not you, who?

Time is running out for many older children in foster care. You could be the family they need now.

In my worst moments, my family had my back

When her marriage and her world fell apart in one day, Bobbi’s family came through in every way so she and her children could be together.

It’s time to do better for kids and parents in foster care

In a conversation between Chris Palusky, Bethany’s President and CEO, and Corey Best, an award-winning child welfare reform advocate and a father, we’re invited to learn about how the child welfare system can be improved.

Resources you can rely on

You deserve information you can trust. Explore our collection of articles and blogs designed to help you and your family thrive.

If not you, who?

Time is running out for many older children in foster care. You could be the family they need now.

young boy in foster care plays with a large, yellow ball in the backyard

Adjusting your expectations about foster care

While we don’t want to talk you out of becoming a foster parent, we want you to set realistic expectations for what foster parenting is like.

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Create a safe haven for kids in foster care

The urgent need for foster families in the U.S.

One of life’s greatest roles

Dismantling the myths of foster care

Myth: I don't have what it takes to become a foster parent

Myth: I don't have what it takes to become a foster parent

Myth: Kids in foster care are "troubled"

Myth: Kids in foster care are "troubled"

Myth: I can't afford to become a foster parent

Myth: I can't afford to become a foster parent

Myth: It will be too emotionally difficult when foster children are reunited

Myth: It will be too emotionally difficult when foster children are reunited

Myth: I need to be married and own a home to foster

Myth: I need to be married and own a home to foster

How much does foster care cost?

Inspiring foster care stories

Inspiring foster care stories

If not you, who?

In my worst moments, my family had my back

It’s time to do better for kids and parents in foster care

Resources you can rely on

If not you, who?

Adjusting your expectations about foster care

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