How to Become a Foster Parent

The Howard County Department of Social Services is in need of Foster/Adoptive Resource Parents!

How can I help a child in need of assistance?

Howard County Department of Social Services (HCDSS) is asking for loving, nurturing and responsible adults to partner with us and become approved Foster/Adoptive Resource Parents. Foster/Adoptive Resource Parents help by providing a temporary and /or permanent home for a child in need of assistance.

Who is a Foster/Adoptive Resource Parent?

A Foster/Adoptive Resource Parent is someone who is trained as both a Foster Parent and an Adoptive Parent. This specialized training enables a Foster Parent to adopt a child without having to go through more training to adopt. Although it is not mandated, many Foster Parents adopt the foster child in their home. Therefore, Foster/Adoptive Resource Parents provide a temporary and/or permanent home for children in need of assistance.
Foster parenting is not always a lifetime commitment to a child, but it is a commitment to be meaningful during a child’s lifetime.

What are the qualifications to become a Foster/Adoptive Resource Parent?

  • You must be at least 21 years of age
  • Able to obtain medical clearance from a health provider
  • Married couples as well as single individuals are welcome
  • You must be able to meet your family’s current financial obligations
  • Both men and women can become foster/adoptive parents
  • Your home must pass a health and fire inspection
  • Police clearance and fingerprinting is required for everyone 18 years & older who reside in your home
  • You need to be willing to work in the best interest of the child

How do I become a Foster/Adoptive Resource Parent?

  • Call the Howard County Department of Social Services at 410-872-8839 to express your interest.


Give a child a home! Call: 410-872-8839