FAQs

We welcome all individuals and families to apply to become foster parents. You can be:

  • Male or female;
  • Single, married, divorced, co-habiting;
  • Straight, gay, bisexual or transgender;
  • From any ethnic group or religion;
  • Any age over 21 – so long as you’re healthy and able to meet the needs of a child in care

You must also meet the basic requirements listed here.

You must be 21 years old. You don’t have to own your home, and you don’t have to make a lot of money. See a list of requirements here.

Yes. You can specify age, race and sex of the child you prefer and are entitled to review the child’s history. You do not have to take a child you don’t believe is the right match.

Yes. Parents receive a set monthly reimbursement based on the child’s needs. These funds are to assist in child-care related costs such as food, clothing, transportation, and supervision. In addition, each child has medical and dental coverage.

Lifeline provides respite, ongoing training, special events, therapy, counseling, crisis intervention 24 hours per day, and many other daily support services for foster parents.

It can take as little as two months (typically three months) to be licensed, but your preferences of placement help determine how long it takes to receive a child in your home.

Fostering/mentoring a child is not the same as parenting a child born to you. Over time, you may need to talk with that child about the birth family, or help the child manage feelings about being in foster care or being adopted. The training and support we provide will help you and the children make the placement successful.

About 95% of the training can be done online, on your own schedule and from your own home! Training consists of one in-person training and three live webinars. 

Yes. There are many opportunities to volunteer and you can give money, goods, professional services or household items.

Donate Now

Make a difference in a child's life. Give where it's needed the most.

You can make a lasting impact on a child's future.

Contact Lifeline about: