Considering Fostering or Adoption?

We want the proper resources to be right at your fingertips.

Licensing Agencies

Triangle foster parents can choose to foster through their local county Department of Social Services, or through private agencies. Choosing a public vs. private agency is a personal choice that takes some research - both options have benefits and drawbacks to them depending on a variety of factors. Feel free to connect with these agencies, post questions in our Facebook Discussion group, or email us.

The General Process

Depending on the agency you choose, your process may vary slightly from this list. However, most licensing timelines are as follows:

Attend an Orientation We recommend reaching out to the department or agency of your choice and attending an orientation. The orientation will then connect you with the next steps to getting licensed, which will include 30 hours of training, a background check, a home study, interviews, and quite a bit of paperwork :)

Take the Plunge and Start your Training! Once you're ready, sign up for your TIPS-MAPP training, which is the required 30 hour class to attend in order to receive your license. Additional items to complete in order to become a licensed foster parent include (but are not limited to):

  • Criminal History: A criminal record check must be completed for every household member 18 years old and older

  • Fingerprints checks for every household member 18 years old and older

  • Sexual Offenders/Child Abuse and Department of Corrections checks are done for all members 18 years old and older

  • Household Fire Inspection

  • Medical Exams: full exams required for each household occupant every 2 years with a TB test (for adults only) at initial licensure

  • References: Telephone or written contact with the references as provided by the applicant

Begin Receiving Placement Calls Once you are a licensed foster parent, you will begin to receive calls for placement from your county's Social Services Department or the private agency you chose. Remember: You always have the right to say no if you think the placement you’re being offered is a bad match. It is up to you to determine the right time to accept placement and details about the child that will best fit your home.

Accept a Placement and Begin Being an "Official" Foster Parent! And Fostering Families will be here for you during your journey as a foster parent!

Useful Links if you’re considering becoming a foster parent

Adopt US Kids A great resource for foster parenting and adoption questions.

ARTICLE: How (and Why) to Become a Foster Parent from The New York Times

VIDEO: Foster and Adoptive Parents: An Introduction From Adopt US Kids

VIDEO: ReMoved ReMoved follows the emotional story through the eyes of a young girl taken from her home and placed into foster care. Winner of Best Film and Audience Choice at the 168 Film Festival

Get Involved

If you're still not sure about becoming a foster parent at this time, we encourage you to get involved! Attending our many events and volunteering will expose you to all sorts of parents, staff and children who are involved in the foster care system, and just may lead you to a path that's right for you!

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Contact us to request to speak with foster and adoptive parents in your area!

Sometimes it’s easier to express concerns and questions over the phone. It’s perfectly normal to have a boatload of questions, so please don’t hesitate to ask! Email us with your contact information and we will connect you shortly.