Imperfect People Make the Best Foster Parents

What Foster Kids Really Need (Hint: Not Perfection)

You don’t have to have it all together to be a great foster parent. In fact, trying to be perfect might get in the way of what children in foster care need most: someone who is present, steady, and open-hearted.

At Restore Therapeutic Foster Care, we often meet people who feel called to foster—but hesitate because they’re “not ready.” They worry their home isn’t big enough, their life isn’t calm enough, or their past isn’t clean enough. Here’s the truth: none of that disqualifies you from making a difference.

What Kids in Foster Care Really Need

Children who come into care aren’t looking for a flawless family. They're looking for:

• Stability – someone who shows up and keeps showing up.

• Kindness – people who are patient even when things get hard.

• Community – a safe environment where healing can begin.

If you can provide that—even in your imperfect, beautifully real way—you may be exactly who they need.

The Myth of “Ready”

There’s no such thing as being completely ready to foster. But there is such a thing as being willing. At Restore, we walk with you through every step:

• We cover the costs of getting licensed.

• We offer trauma-informed training and ongoing support.

• We connect you with a team who’s been there.

Your lived experience matters. Your willingness to learn matters. That’s what makes the difference.

You Bring Something Special

Foster parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. You bring your lived experience, your resilience, your culture, your sense of humor. And that, friend, is enough.