Becoming a Foster Parent

No matter what the age, all children in foster care need meaningful connections with caring adults who provide a supportive and nurturing presence in their lives.

The Process:

If you are interested in taking the next step toward becoming a foster parent, the Department of Social Services (DSS) will work closely with you to answer your questions, help you understand the process, requirements, and commitment necessary to become a licensed foster parent.

• Upon completion of the Commit to Know More form, DSS will contact you to provide more information. 


• If you choose to continue the foster parent licensing process, a home consultation will be completed. You'll receive more information about becoming a foster parent, and a preliminary safety check of your home will be completed. 


• The next step is PRIDE (Parents Resource Information, Development and Education) training. Learn more about the PRIDE program.


• Upon completion of the training, a final assessment is completed to determine if you meet licensing requirements. 


• If requirements are met, a license is issued. 


• If a child is in need of a foster home, and your home is a good match for the child, DSS will contact you to discuss placement.