Often times, foster parents join because their overall wish is to adopt a child – especially a child that is still considered an infant or a toddler.

This is great for young children in foster care who are available for adoption, but what about the 9-year-old boy whose mother left him alone in her apartment for three days? Or the junior in high school who dreams of becoming a doctor, but her parents are addicted to drugs? Or the two brothers and sister whose parents died, and there are no relatives to take them in?

Scenarios such as these are exactly the reason why the Davie County Department of Social Services is actively seeking more foster families to provide a child with a safe and loving environment for two weeks, two months, two years or more.

Perhaps you’ve got teens in the home, or your kids are away at school and you are at a point in life where you could help a child. Would you consider opening your home to a foster child on a temporary basis?

Davie Social Services is committed to providing training and support every step of the way. Common questions are received by the department concerning the requirements for becoming a foster parent. Below are a sample of those frequently asked questions.

What is required to become a foster parent in North Carolina?

Foster parents must be at least 21 years old, have a stable home and income, be willing to be finger printed and have a criminal records check, maintain a drug-free environment and complete required training and be licensed by the state.

Who are the children in need of foster parents?

The children that are placed into the state foster care program have typically been neglected, abused or abandoned, and range in age from infancy through 18 years. Children may be a part of a sibling group, have special needs and represent various cultural and economic groups.

What kind of assistance is available for foster parents?

Foster parents receive financial compensation from the placement agency for a child’s room, board, and other living expenses. Sometimes there are supplemental payments for the care of children with special needs.

Who can I contact to learn more about becoming a foster parent in Davie County?

Interested individuals and families may contact Davie Social Services at 336-753-6253.