Over 1400 children in Sarasota, Manatee, and Desoto counties are not able to remain safely in their homes. Lack of foster homes means placing children in shelters and separating brothers and sisters. Foster parents are local heroes, making a difference every day.
A licensed foster parent provides temporary care for children. Safe Children Coalition licenses foster homes for residents of Sarasota, Manatee & Desoto counties. We provide training and support so foster parents can provide excellent care to our children.
Foster Parents are needed for children of all ages – infants, toddlers, school aged & teens. Foster Parents provide abused or neglected children with stability and a place to heal until they can safely return to their parents.
Foster parenting is a position of public trust and a privilege, not a right or entitlement. We help families determine if fostering is a good fit for their family and likewise, if they will be a good fit for our fostering program.
We welcome diverse families from all walks of life. We license single men and women, same gender couples, and those with or without religious affiliation. Families can work outside the home, be retired, have children or have an empty nest.
1. Attend a Virtual or In-Person Info Meeting
Get an overview of foster parenting, the child welfare system, and the supports available. These no-pressure meetings are a chance to ask questions and explore if fostering is right for you.
2. Submit a Family Profile Packet
After the meeting, you’ll receive a family profile packet. Once submitted, our team will review it to determine eligibility for training.
3. Complete Training
Invited participants will attend an 8-week virtual training class, held one evening per week for 3 hours.
4. Get Licensed
Work with a Licensing Specialist to complete background checks, required documents, and a home study. Once approved, you’ll be ready to welcome children into your foster home.
YOU CAN HELP US REIMAGINE THE FUTURE
