Become a Foster Parent

Become a Foster Parent

As of October 31, 2012, there were 6,864 children in Illinois placed in non-relative foster homes.

Most children are removed from their families because of abuse and/or neglect. They need a safe, loving family to help them remember that they matter. They need someone to listen to them and provide unconditional support as they cope with the crisis that brought them into foster care and the trauma they have experienced.

The Center for Youth and Family Solutions licenses foster parents who do more than just provide food, shelter or clothing. We partner with singles and couples who will work with us as part of our professional child welfare team to make a difference in the life of a child.

Are you a patient and caring person? Do you enjoy being with children and helping them reach their fullest potential? Are you willing to welcome a child into your home, even for a little while? We understand it is a big decision, and that you may have been thinking about it for a while. Whether you just want more information or are ready to start the licensing process, we would love to hear from you and talk with you about how you can become part of our foster care team. Please contact the Foster Licensing Program for more information.

News coverage of the foster care system is often in response to stories about the struggles and triumphs of the children in care. However, most of the public perception of foster parents is based on negative stereotypes and misconceptions. Listen to this broadcast from NPR’s Talk of the Nation, where a foster parent who has fostered over 40 children in 15 years discusses her experience.

Make a Difference for Life! Become a Foster Parent

We know if you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, you most likely have a ton of questions. Join us for a virtual Q & A where you can get those questions answered, learn more of our kind and caring team who will lead you through the journey every step of the way. Our next virtual Q & A sessions will be on:

DEC. 13, 2022 12:00-1:30 OR 6:00-7:30

Simply click on Zoom link below that works best for your schedule.

Dec. 13 12:00-1:30
Dec. 13 6:00-7:30

Can’t make the Q & A but have some questions? Contact Sarah Hoover at shoover@cyfsolutions.org or by giving her a call at (309) 786-0770

We know if you have ever considered becoming a foster parent, you most likely have a ton of questions. Let us take this journey with you and answer all of your questions. Simply complete our foster parent interest form by click here.

Not ready to complete the form but would rather reach out to someone? Contact Liz Sekowski at esekowski@cyfsolutions.org or by giving her a call at (309) 820-7616 and she will be happy to answer anything you need!