Become a foster parent
What is foster care?
Being a foster parent is so much more than loving a child in your home. It’s also showing kindness to a family when they need it most.
It’s giving a child a safe place to land during a hard, scary time when they’re away from home. And it’s showing compassion to a parent who is likely overwhelmed, scared, and without a lot of support.
It’s helping a child stay connected to the only home they’ve ever known, in whatever way it’s safe to do so, and cheering on a family that’s living out a comeback story.
At Bethany, our heart beats for family. We want to see families strong, supported, and together. But we know there are times when families face challenges—and children need care.
That’s why we’re seeking foster parents who believe in families too.
Common questions about foster care
How many kids are in foster care in the U.S.?
Over 400,000 children are in the U.S. foster care system. The average age of a foster child is 8.
There is an urgent need for foster homes for older children (ages 11-17) and sibling groups.
How much does it cost to be a foster parent?
Foster parents receive a monthly, tax-free stipend. While the amount varies by state, most foster parents report it covers necessary expenses like food, clothing, and school supplies.
You will still discover additional out-of-pocket costs, which is why we recommend foster parents seek community resources and family support.
What are the qualifications to be a foster parent?
You must be 21+ years of age and have sufficient space in your home for foster children. You can be married or single, and you can own or rent your home, apartment, condo, etc.
The exact requirements vary by state. Staff at your local Bethany office will explain your state’s licensing requirements.
What qualities do you need to be a good foster parent?
You might assume a certain type of person makes an “ideal” foster parent — but that’s not true. We’ve worked with single dads, seasoned grandmothers, first-time parents, and parents who both work full time. People from all walks of life can be foster parents.
We’re looking for parents who can provide both structure and flexibility. Parents who have a sense of humor and are open to new parenting styles. Parents who have a heart for older children and keeping siblings together. Parents who advocate fiercely and love generously.
Is there a Bethany foster care program in my area?
Enter your zip code on our Find a Location page to locate the program nearest you.
Your role as a foster parent
As a foster parent, you will:
Provide a safe and supportive home environment to a child who has experienced trauma
Help the child feel safe, loved, and connected until they can be reunified with family
Provide transportation for education, medical appointments, and extracurricular activities
Together with Bethany, support the child and their family as they work toward reunification
Bethany's role as a support system
Bethany will support you every step of the way:
You’ll be assigned a support team, which might include foster care specialists, foster care supervisors, licensing specialists, doctors, therapists, and other service providers — professionals who know how to connect you to specific resources to meet the child’s individual needs
You’ll receive specialized training on how to parent children who have experienced trauma
What is the process for becoming a foster parent through Bethany?
The process to become a foster parent looks different in each state, based on their licensing requirements and regulations. Generally speaking, these are the steps to become a foster parent through Bethany:
Attend a free informational meeting hosted by your local Bethany branch
Complete the certification process, which includes a thorough background screening and specialized foster care training from Bethany staff
Receive your first foster placement and welcome a child or children into your home
Video series: An introduction to foster care
This five-part series is designed to answer five commonly asked questions about foster care:
• What is foster care? • Who are the kids in foster care? • Who are foster parents? • What will foster parenting be like? • What are the steps to becoming a foster parent?
Download our free ebook
If you're feeling scared or anxious about becoming a foster parent, that's completely normal. Discover answers to your big questions about foster care.
Attend a meeting
Information is power. When you attend a foster care meeting in your area, you'll dive in deep, ask questions, and discover if foster care is right for you.
Contact us
When you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, we'll connect you with a licensing specialist.
Resources you can trust
Resources you can trust
Reunification: The goal of foster care
The first goal of foster care is always to reunify children with their parents in a safe, stable environment.
How to become a foster parent
Discover answers to many of your questions about becoming a foster parent and preparing for your first placement.
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.
