BECOME A FOSTER PARENT
Real local agencies that train, license and support foster families, sorted by state and county. Every link goes to the organization's own website.
1. Reach out
Contact a local agency or your county below and ask about an info session.
2. Get trained
Agencies walk you through training, a home study and background checks.
3. Get licensed
Once licensed, your agency supports you as children are placed.
Or browse by state
ADOPTION, KINSHIP CARE, GUARDIANSHIP & LEGAL HELP
Fostering is one path to permanency. These four national resources — each on its own website, in a new tab — explain the others.
ADOPTION
Adopting from foster care gives a child a permanent family — and in most cases comes with help for costs and medical care. Families Rising lists the foster and adoptive parent organization in every state.
FIND FAMILY SUPPORT IN YOUR STATE
KINSHIP CARE
A grandparent, relative or close family friend is raising a child? Generations United is the national voice for these families and explains what kinship care means and what help exists.
SEE KINSHIP CARE RESOURCES
GUARDIANSHIP
Guardianship lets a relative raise a child permanently without adopting. Generations United compares adoption and guardianship in charts for each state.
COMPARE ADOPTION & GUARDIANSHIP
LEGAL HELP
Free legal aid for family and child welfare problems. Search by city or address for a legal aid office near you, or read plain-language guides on LawHelp.org.
FIND FREE LEGAL HELP NEAR YOU
Help Foster Youth is a directory. Always confirm requirements and details directly with each organization.