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Become a Foster Parent
Every child deserves an unwavering champion. As a foster parent, you help children and teens shine by providing safety, stability, and a sense of belonging.
Foster parents play a critical role in helping children heal from trauma and rediscover their potential.
At Shineforth, our foster parent process is supportive, transparent, and personalized for each family’s unique journey. Foster with Shineforth in four easy steps:
Information
What is treatment foster care? Learn more in-person or online.
Application
Our team will guide you through every step of the application.
Preparation
25 hours of trauma-informed training and a home study.
Placement
Open your heart and your home to a young person in foster care.
IN THEIR WORDS
Here’s what foster families say.
Behind every placement is a story of resilience and a powerful reminder of the importance of this work.
“We’ve been blown away by the love and commitment of the staff. It’s clearly not just a job for them but a calling, and it shows. I couldn’t give a higher recommendation. Shineforth is the best!”
— Shineforth Foster Family, Tidewater
“I applaud the staff at Shineforth because they work hard to do what’s right for the children.”
— Shineforth Foster Family, Farmville
“My Treatment Team consists of some of the top people in their fields. Everyone works just as hard as I do for my children. They continually look for ways to help.”
— Shineforth Foster Family, Richmond
FOSTER PARENT REQUIREMENTS IN VIRGINIA
What Does it Take to Change a Life?
If you have room in your home, space in your heart, and meet the following prerequisites, you’re ready to begin the foster parent process.
- 21 or older
- Stable income
- Ability to pass a Child Protective Services and Criminal History Search
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Personal references
- Physical space in your home
- Emotional space in your life
- Medical information
There are no religious requirements or restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can become a foster parent?
Anyone over 21 who can provide a stable and caring home. Foster parents come from all walks of life — singles, couples, families, renters, and homeowners alike.
What kind of support will I receive?
When you become a foster parent with Shineforth, you’ll be supported by a team that offers 24/7 support and ongoing training, and you’ll receive peer mentorship from other foster families.
Do I have to be religious or a member of a church?
You don’t have to have a faith affiliation to be a foster parent with Shineforth. We welcome foster parents of all backgrounds and beliefs and who share our commitment to helping children and families thrive.
Can I adopt a child who’s in foster care?
Yes. In Virginia, 70 percent of children and teens who are adopted are actually adopted by their foster parents. Learn more about the Foster to Adopt process here.
What if I’m not quite ready to be a foster parent?
Choosing to become a foster parent is a big decision. Our team will work with you to determine if you’re ready. Join an info session and connect with our team, and we’ll help shine a light on what fostering might look like for you.
Start Your Fostering Journey with Shineforth Today.
Ready to take the next step?
Fill out our short inquiry form above or call 866.243.6228 to be directed to your local Shineforth office. A member of our Foster Care team will reach out to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.
