10 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Foster Care Agency
The right agency will walk with you, not just approve you. When you decide to explore foster care, one of the most important choices you’ll make is which agency to work with. Every agency is different—not just in their licensing process, but in their values, support systems, and how they treat both parents and children.
At Restore Therapeutic Foster Care, we know that strong, supported foster parents are the key to stable, healing homes for kids. If you’re considering this journey, here are 10 thoughtful questions to ask before choosing a foster care agency.
1. What kind of support do you provide to foster parents—especially after a child is placed?
Not all agencies are the same. Communication frequency, home visits, and ongoing support can vary greatly. Ask about how often you’ll hear from your caseworker, what kind of parent coaching is provided, and how the agency supports you during transitions or difficult seasons. It’s also important to know what support they offer with school enrollment, transportation, and whether the agency connects you with respite care, daycare, or after-school programs. Find out if they assist with locating doctors, therapists, and other providers your child may need.
2. How do your agency’s values align with mine?
Fostering is more than paperwork—it’s deeply personal. Does the agency share your values around family, reunification, trauma, or faith? Do they treat foster parents as partners, not just providers? Alignment in mission and mindset matters.
3. What is your agency’s approach to trauma-informed care?
Children in foster care often carry the weight of trauma. Your agency should provide ongoing training, tools, and resources to help you understand and respond to that trauma with patience and compassion—not just consequences.
4. How often will I be in contact with my caseworker?
Support isn’t just about emergencies—it’s about proactive, caring communication. Ask how often caseworkers visit your home, how they follow up on your needs, and how responsive they are when something feels off. There may also be additional meetings or in-person trainings required by each agency. Understanding these time commitments upfront can help you choose a foster care partner that fits your family’s rhythm and readiness.
5. How do you equip foster parents to feel confident and prepared?
Licensing is the beginning—not the end—of your learning. Look for agencies that offer comprehensive training, clear expectations, mentorship opportunities, and practical insight into the real challenges of parenting kids in care.
6. What does your licensing process involve, and how long does it typically take?
Every state has requirements, but each agency handles them differently. A strong agency will guide you step-by-step through paperwork, background checks, training, and home study, with realistic timelines and personal support.
7. What does the child placement process look like in your agency?
This is key. Will you be called about every child, or only those who match your preferences? Will you get time to ask questions before saying yes? You deserve to be part of the decision—not just notified after the fact.
8. How do you support foster parents during reunification or transitions?
Many foster parents fear the goodbyes—but a great agency helps you process, celebrate, and grieve those moments in a healthy way. Ask what kind of support they offer when a child leaves your home.
9. How are foster parents compensated and reimbursed?
You don’t foster for the money—but you also shouldn’t be left covering everything alone. Ask about the parent stipend, reimbursement timelines, and whether the agency helps with clothing, school supplies, recreational activities and other essentials.
10. Do any of your staff have personal experience with foster care or adoption?
It’s powerful when your agency truly understands what you’re going through. That lived experience shapes the service, support, and understanding you receive.
Ask the Right Questions—Find the Right Support
Choosing a foster care agency is about more than checking boxes. It’s about choosing the people who will stand beside you during one of the most meaningful journeys of your life.
If you’re exploring foster care in Virginia, we’d love to be part of that journey.
👋 Let’s Talk
Whether you’re ready to begin or just curious, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us at (804) 442-2775
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