Foster Care Services

Foster care is temporary care for children who cannot stay in their own home because of abuse, neglect, or dependency. Children are placed in homes that are licensed by the state. The ultimate goal for these children is to return to their parents or a relative.

Most foster children have been placed in the custody of the Department of Social Services by the Court. While the child is in foster care, the social worker and biological family are working towards reuniting the child with his/her family. Visitation is arranged between the child and his/her family.

Becoming a Foster/Adoptive Parent

Foster parents meet the temporary placement needs of Wayne County children. The primary goal for all foster care children is to reunify them with family. 

To be considered a Foster Parent(s) you must:

  • Complete Foster Care Application  
  • Pass a criminal back ground and Child Welfare check
  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Be a resident of Wayne County
  • Have a stable home and income
  • Maintain a drug free environment
  • Be willing to be finger printed and have a criminal records check
  • Complete 30 hours of required group meetings to be licensed by the state of North Carolina
  • Updated on immunization on all indoor pets

Group meetings are designed as a selection process to help prospective foster parents decide whether they are ready to make the commitment of becoming a foster parent.  Meetings will provide information and skills needed to cope with issues, behaviors and traits that you may be unfamiliar with. 

Foster parent meetings are open to all candidates who have completed and passed the above requirements.  If you are interested in attending a foster parent information meeting, contact a licensing social worker by calling the agency at 919-705-6533. 

Click Below for Required Forms

Foster Parent Application
Background Check Authorization
Responsible Individuals List Check