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Be the beginning

of hope

The families who foster

You may not think of yourself as different or special, but your empathy for young people who are hurting sets you apart. You know that every kid does better with a steady supply of unconditional care, safety and support—and you feel driven to open your home and your heart to make a difference in a young person’s life.

Although every foster family is different, the families best suited to this commitment tend to be:

  • Confident and effective decision makers
  • Capable of maintaining healthy, supportive relationships with the people living in your household, even through conflict and challenges
  • Willing and able to dedicate time, patience and care to make a difference in a young person’s life
  • Willing and able to provide opportunities for recreational and cultural activities
“We felt we had extra to give—extra energy, extra love, extra effort. What better way to spend your energy than on a child? Foster parenting is so important, and we’re so proud to be a part of this community.”
- CHAD, FOSTER PARENT

Supporting kids’ diverse needs

The families who foster through Foster Plus agencies represent the diversity of the state and the diversity of the young people receiving care. Though you don’t need to have the same background as the young people you foster, having a diverse pool of available families helps agencies match kids and teens with the people who can best meet their specific needs. This includes foster parents who:

Are people of color

There are a disproportionate number of young people of color in the foster care system, and caring for them requires cultural competency and an understanding of the challenges that many kids of color face.

Are LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ foster parents can offer understanding and acceptance that reaches young people during a time of self-discovery and transition.

Have experience with traditional foster care

If you have experience as a traditional foster parent and are ready to take the next step, Foster Plus is a great way to amplify your impact.

Have personal experience with trauma

If you’ve experienced and overcome trauma, you may have a greater ability to support and understand a young person who’s struggling to overcome a difficult past.

Have professional experience helping people through trauma

Your professional training and drive to make a difference can help you connect with a kid in need.

Becoming a foster parent
No matter which Foster Plus agency you foster with, your journey will include the steps shown here. Take your first step today.
Interested in becoming a Relief Parent? Learn what’s involved.
Learning & Exploration
  • Learn what's involved
  • Connect with the Foster Plus team
Getting Started
  • Attend an info session
  • Submit your application
Training & Certification
  • Receive specialized training
  • Provide references
  • Complete training process, background checks and home study
Orientation
  • Meet your support team
  • Learn about the kids your agency serves
  • Complete training process, background checks and home study
Foster Parenting
  • Get paired with foster kid
  • Make a difference in a kid's life
  • Receive 24/7 support
  • Time: you can expect the child to stay in your home for six months to two years
The Mendozas

Learn how Stephanie & Luis provide stability and hope. Be the home where healing happens. 

Ask us a question
  • What are the basic qualifications to become a foster parent?
  • What type of financial compensation will I get as a foster parent? 
  • Do I receive training before a young person is placed in my home?
  • Do I get a say in which kids are placed with me?
  • How long will the kid stay in my home?
  • What happens if I have an issue with a child in my home?
  • How long does it take to get certified?
  • Do I get breaks as a foster parent?
  • What are the basic qualifications to become a foster parent?

    To foster with a Foster Plus agency, you must meet the following basic requirements:

    • At least 21 years old
    • Can pass a background check
    • Can demonstrate financial independence (families cannot be dependent upon the foster care stipend)
    • Complete orientation and pre-certification training, and maintain certification through continued education and training
    • Reliable transportation
    • At least one driver over the age of 21 with a valid Oregon driver’s license
    • Separate bedroom with a door and a window for the foster kid placed in your home

    Local agencies may have additional requirements beyond those listed here. Contact your local agency to learn more.

  • What type of financial compensation will I get as a foster parent? 

    Foster Plus agencies provide foster parents a stipend starting at $1,400/month. The stipend varies among agencies and based on the needs of each kid. It’s used to cover costs such as food, transportation, clothing, utility bills and activities.

  • Do I receive training before a young person is placed in my home?

    Yes. All families must go through a certification process before qualifying. Training is an important part of this process, and you’ll receive specialized training to make sure you’re ready to address the young person’s specific needs. Download our information sheet to learn more about the training and support you'll receive.

  • Do I get a say in which kids are placed with me?

    The placement process is a team effort, and your local agency's staff will work to understand which young people will be the best fit for your family. During the certification process, your certifier will work with you to determine your strengths, helping to ensure a successful match with each placement.

  • How long will the kid stay in my home?

    In general, you should expect the kid to stay in your home for six months to two years.

  • What happens if I have an issue with a child in my home?

    Support staff are available around the clock to help you with any issues that may arise. You’ll receive a list of contacts and are encouraged to reach out any time. In addition, you’ll receive specialized training to help you address a number of specific situations.

  • How long does it take to get certified?

    The certification process usually takes between six weeks and four months, but this can vary among local agencies. Download our information sheet to learn more.

  • Do I get breaks as a foster parent?

    Yes. Part-time foster parents are available to care for your foster kid when you need a break. You’ll have at least 48 hours off each month. Breaks can be two nights in a row or a few hours at a time, depending on what you need.

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Select your county
oregon-map BAKER WASCO BENTON CLACKAMAS CLATSOP COLUMBIA COOS CROOK CURRY DOUGLAS DESCHUTES HOOD RIVER HARNEY GRANT GILLIAM JEFFERSON LINN LAKE LINCOLN JACKSON JOSEPHINE KLAMATH LANE MULTNOMAH MORROW MARION MALHEUR UNION UMATILLA TILLAMOOK SHERMAN POLK WALLOWA WASHINGTON YAMHILL WHEELER