Becoming a Foster Parent
Every child deserves a safe, supportive place to call home. As a foster parent, you can offer more than a roof and a bed; you can be a steady, loving presence in a child’s life.
The Need in South Dakota
Foster families are urgently needed across the state for children of all ages and backgrounds. Having more families allows children to be placed with homes that best match their unique needs and help them thrive.
Today, we especially need families who can support:
Native American Children
The Indian Welfare Act (ICWA) gives preference for Native American children to be placed with:
- Extended family
- Members of their tribe
- Other Native American families
If you’re a Native American caregiver who can help a child stay connected to their culture and heritage, your role is vital.
Teens
Older youth often wait the longest for foster families. These young people need a steady adult in their life- someone to guide them, support their goals, and help them prepare for adulthood.
Brothers and sisters
Siblings are often each other’s anchor. Keeping brothers and sisters together matters, and we need families willing to foster multiple children to help them stay connected.
Children with Specialized Needs
Some children have medical, emotional, or developmental needs that require extra care. With training and support, you can be the difference in their life. If you’ve worked in healthcare, education, caregiving, or you're simply willing to learn, we’d love to talk to you.
How to get started
Becoming a foster parent is a journey and we’re here to walk beside you every step of the way.
- Submit a request to Learn More.
After you submit your request, an inquiry specialist will reach out to answer your questions and guide you forward.
- Home Consultation
We’ll visit your home to share more information, conduct a preliminary safety check, and get to know your family.
- Parenting Training
You’ll complete a training course designed to equip and support you in caring for children with diverse needs and experiences.
- Final Licensing Assessment
Upon completion of the training, a final assessment is completed to determine if you meet licensing requirements.
- You’re Licensed
- If requirements are met, a license is issued, and you will be considered for placements that are a good match for your home.
- If a child is in need of a foster home and your home is a good match for the child, Department of Social Services will contact you to discuss placement.
Take the First Step
South Dakota’s children are waiting for families like yours. Whether you’re just curious or ready to begin, fill out a request to Learn More and start your journey toward becoming a foster parent today.
