Foster Care

Who Can Be a Resource Parent?

Any person over 21, regardless of race, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or gender expression, or whether they are married, single, or part of any other family structure is able to foster or adopt a child or youth. There are also no income restrictions, provided the resource parent can financially support a child or youth.

A resource parent should be ready and able to provide a stable, loving family and home, whether that be in a house or apartment.

Core Competencies of Resource Parents

• Protect and nurture children
• Meet the child’s developmental needs and address developmental delays
• Support relationships between children and their biological families
• Connect children to safe, nurturing relationships intended to last a lifetime
• Work as a member of a professional team

It’s not uncommon to have reservations about fostering or adopting a child or youth. Many of the families who now serve as resource parents with us had numerous questions in the beginning. Our resource family recruiters are happy to speak with you over the phone or in person to answer your questions. Once you begin your application, a resource family recruiter will reach out to schedule a time to discuss your concerns directly.

To learn more, please read our FAQ’s about fostering a child or youth in California