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Foster

So what is the difference between fostering and adopting?  Fostering means that you are committing to caring for a child during one of the most challenging times of their lives. The majority of foster placements are set with a goal of reunification. Reunification means that fostering is temporary, and we don’t always know how long the placement is going to be. What we do know is that children who are placed in homes where they are provided with stable, nurturing and positive relationships during their time away from their families makes a HUGE impact on their lives.

Take some time to view some of the top Child Placing Agencies in Central Texas to get your license.

Child Placing Agencies

Adoption

There are so many children in foster care awaiting their forever families. Children spend on average, two years waiting for an adoptive family once parental rights have been terminated. In most cases, they're a sibling group, children of color or they are teenagers.  Families can also opt to do foster-to-adopt placements. In this avenue, placement is planned out. While reunification is still the goal, the opportunity to adopt the child (ren) is also a possibility – though not guaranteed. Many families utilize this point of entry so if they ever decide to adopt, they already maintain the correct license.

No matter what path you choose, think about the impact that your family can have on not just a child in need, but an entire community.

View the Heart Gallery

Foster Care in Texas

Journey to Licensing

To become a foster or adoptive parent the state requires you to be licensed/certified by a child placing agency. The licensing process can take anywhere from two to four months depending on the agency you choose and the time it takes you to complete your paperwork.

Applicants must be:

  • 21 Years or Older
  • Financially Responsible
  • Pass FBI and State background checks
  • Agree to a home study

If you have ever considered becoming a temporary or permanent placement for a child, don’t wait. Ask questions! Start thinking about it now and follow the NEXT STEPS in your journey

Next Steps

  • 1
    Attend an Orientation at one of our Information Sessions
  • 2
    Examine your motivations and expectations
  • 3
    Select a Child Placing Agency to become licensed
  • 4
    Complete all applications and required paperwork and background checks
  • 5
    Determine what child(ren) might best fit your family
  • 6
    Participate in pre service training through your agency
  • 7
    Prepare your home for a child
  • 8
    Have home study completed by your agency
  • 9
    Wait expectantly

Ready to Help?

Even if you're not ready to foster or adopt -  you can still play a role.  Volunteering with an organization that supports foster care and adoption is a great place to start.  Take a moment to learn more about our partners by visiting the Resource Services page.

Fill out a questionnaire to
discover opportunities that match
your interests!

Get Started
DON’T WORRY

Our organizations will only
contact you according to your
interests!

"…fostering is about more than kids.  It's about caring for the biological family and having compassion for their circumstances.”

JESSICA
Foster Mom