Take the first step to change a child’s life.  

Every family story starts somewhere. Meet Toni, who adopted her twins from foster care right here in DC. Here’s how her family came to be.

Being a foster parent is a life-changing experience, for you and for a child. There will be challenging moments, but it’s some of the most rewarding work you’ll ever do. The DC foster parent licensing process typically takes 5-6 months to complete, and we aim to get you into the next training classes within 30 days. While you complete the full licensing process, we encourage you to join our events as a volunteer to meet current foster parents who’ve been where you are. At the end, you’ll be fully licensed to foster children in DC. And for about 50% of children in foster care, adoption is possible. 

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• Live in Washington, DC or Maryland
• Be at least 21 years old
• No more than 5 children are currently living in your home
• Proof of employment and income
• A bedroom for the foster child must have a window or a door
• Foster parent must also have their own private bedroom (not a couch or living room)
• Every adult over 18 in your home must pass a criminal background check and demonstrate no charges related to child abuse, neglect, or major offenses

Not ready to foster or adopt? You can volunteer at one of our events instead.