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Frequently asked questions

What are the requirements to become a foster parent?

There are four basic requirements to be eligible to become a foster parent:
  • You must be at least 18 years of age in VA and 21 years of age in NC.
  • You must have sufficient space in your home for a child/children. 
  • You must complete a criminal background check. NC also requires a medical evaluation and fire inspection.
  • You must demonstrate financial stability, as evidenced by the ability to cover your monthly expenses. 

How old do I have to be to be a foster parent?

You must be 18 years old in VA and 21 years old in NC to become a certified foster parent.

How do I become a foster parent and how long does it take?

The certification process can be done in as little as 90 days. It involves an application, free training, a background check, and final certification. Learn more about each step. 

Foster dad hugging little boy

What is the cost of becoming a certified foster parent?

Certification is FREE! We provide training classes and assistance with paperwork at no charge.

(While the licensure process is free, there are some charges associated with  fingerprinting, a medical evaluation, and a fire inspection. These costs vary by county.)

What kind of training do I need to become a certified foster parent?

The free training classes can be done in-person, virtually, or a combination of the two. You'll meet twice weekly for six weeks, each class lasting two to three hours. The curriculum is by Pressley Ridge and conducted by a certified Embrace TFC team member. The curriculum teaches foster parents skills, such as effective and appropriate communication, parenting techniques, behavior management strategies, and positive relationship building.

Do I have to own my own home to be a foster parent?

Foster parents do not have to own their own home but have a suitable living arrangement.

Foster mom playing with little girl

Can I have pets in the home?

In VA, you can have pets in your home, but they must be vaccinated and have a license.

In NC, you can have pets in your home, but they must be vaccinated and must not display any signs of aggression.

Can I have a job and still foster a child?

Yes! Many foster parents have full—or part-time jobs. We can help you access your local community resources. in NC, a daycare stipend is provided based off the amount of hours the foster parent(s) work.

Do I have to be married to be a foster parent?

You do not have to be married to become a certified foster parent. We place children in single- and two-parent homes and welcome foster parents of all races, religions, cultures, and sexual orientations.

Foster parents playing with boy

Is there financial assistance if a child in foster care is living with my family?

Yes. In VA, payments are based on the child’s age and their level of need.  As a result, it can vary from child to child and change throughout their placement.

In NC, a “difficulty of care stipend” is provided based on the child’s age and their level of need.  As a result, it can vary from child to child and change throughout their placement. This stipend is not considered income and should be utilized first and foremost to care for the child placed in the home. Any additional stipend can be used at the discretion of the foster parent.

What are the expectations of a foster parent? What are the primary responsibilities?

As a foster parent in VA, you’re expected to meet the needs of a child placed with your family just as you would a biological child.  You will also need to be a member of the treatment team process.

As a foster parent in NC, you’re expected to meet the needs of a child placed with your family just as you would a biological child. This includes transporting a child to appointments, visits, and extracurriculars. Part of being a therapeutic foster parent includes involvement in the treatment team for the child. This includes participating in team meetings, attending court if necessary, and being an advocate for the child.

Can I adopt a child in foster care?

Yes, as long as their goal is adoption. For many children, the goal can change multiple times throughout their time in foster care. In NC, roughly 50% of children in the state who enter foster care will need a permanent placement outside of their family of origin.

Two girls with foster parent

After a child is placed in my home, what help and support do you provide?

We conduct home visits based on the child’s level of care and assist in accessing community resources that the family or child may need. In NC, for a therapeutic placement, home visits are typically once a week. We also provide free annual ongoing training. Families will have access to 24/7 on-call crisis support with Embrace TFC team members. 

Do I have to provide health insurance for a child in my care?

No. Children in foster care receive Medicaid, and the Embrace TFC team assists in identifying providers who accept it. 

How long will a child be with my family?

The length of time varies based on the child’s goals and needs and is determined by the court system.

Still have questions?

Join us for a free informational session or fill out our inquiry form.

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