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Be a hero: Be a foster parent

Open your heart and home to children in their greatest time of need

Provide stability and hope to children in the midst of uncertainty. Become a foster parent.

Are you a current foster parent with feedback to share with CHS? Complete this short form to let us know what’s on your mind! We read every single submission, and someone will respond to you soon.

Thousands of Florida children need a safe place to live – right now. These kids – from newborns to teenagers – can’t live at home until their families work through challenges interfering with their safety.

They’re scared. Angry. Confused. Hurt.

They need hope, love and structure. If you’re ready to open your heart and home, we can’t wait to talk to you.

Call us to take the first step. Then, get ready for your journey:

  • Attend an orientation session
  • Complete specialized training
  • Complete a thorough home study (we’ll ask lots of questions!)
  • Complete a home health inspection by the Department of Health
  • Complete background, employment and reference checks
  • Get ready to change lives – including your own

Age requirements

You must be at least 21 years old and in good health.

Support provided to foster parents

The support is never-ending. We provide training, activities and connections. We’ll be with you every step of the way.

Foster care is meant to be temporary.

As a foster parent, you have a very special place in the lives of the children who find safety in your home. But all foster parents must understand that children will likely be in their homes only temporarily.

The goal of foster care is to help families overcome challenges so they may bring their children home safely.

If a child is unable to ever safely return home, then adoption may be an option. If this happens, you can work with your specialist to learn more.

Types of foster care

  • Traditional foster care
    • Most of our kids will join traditional foster homes. The training you complete will prepare you to understand how to work through common behaviors and needs of the children you’ll welcome into your home. *Not available in Northeast Florida
  • Therapeutic foster care
    • Children who have suffered extreme trauma often have more severe emotional and behavioral needs than a traditional foster home is prepared for. Therapeutic foster families complete very specialized training so they are equipped to help these kids. *Available only in Northeast Florida
  • Medical foster care
    • Children with severe medical needs must join foster families specially trained and equipped to provide appropriate medical care and attention. *Available only in Northeast Florida, Central Florida, Volusia/Flagler/Putnam counties, Broward County

 Stipends

Foster parents receive a modest stipend to help cover costs associated with caring for children in foster care. The stipend may not cover all costs associated with caring for the children in your home.

Love in Fostering

Right now, children in your community need a loving foster home … there simply aren’t enough. Contact your local office to find out how you can help. Special thanks to these parents for sharing their story.