Foster Care FAQ

Who are the children in foster care?

There are 10,000 children in foster care in Washington on any given day. Of these children, 2,300 are legally free for adoption. The greatest number of children in foster care are in Pierce, King, and Spokane counties. There is no such thing as a typical foster child. He or she may be:

  • Between the ages of 0-18 years old

     
  • Any gender identity

     
  • Any sexual orientation

     
  • From any ethnic, cultural, religious, or socioeconomic group

     
  • In touch with their birth family or have no contact at all

     
  • Have specific needs related to the trauma of being placed outside of their home

Who is the typical foster parent?

There is no such thing. We welcome all individuals to apply to become a foster parent. A foster parent may be:

  • Single, partnered, or married

     
  • Any gender identity

     
  • Any sexual orientation

     
  • From any ethnic, cultural, religious, or socioeconomic group

     
  • Have other children in their home or no other children in their home

What does it take to be a foster parent?

A foster parent must have the following in order to provide a home for a child in their care:

  • Stable home environment (you may rent or own)

     
  • Healthy outlook on life

     
  • Patience

     
  • Kindness

     
  • Dedication/commitment

     
  • Sense of humor

What are the benefits to being a foster parent?

Being a foster parent allows you the unique opportunity to make a positive impact on a child's life; often times, you will be the first positive adult role model the child has come in contact with.

CHSW staff are there to support you with ongoing training opportunities and support as you navigate through the process to become a foster parent, and even after you have brought a child into your home. Staff will assist you with the child's educational needs.

All foster parents receive a monthly monetary stipend to cover the child's care and basic needs.

How can I learn more?

If you would like more information on becoming a foster parent, we want to hear from you! We encourage you to consider taking on rewarding challenge of bringing a child into your home through foster care.

In King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties, contact Laura at 206-388-5868 or email her.

In the Wenatchee area, contact Kris Collier at 509-663-0034 or email her.