How to Become a Baltimore City Resource Parent

Foster Love and Family Matters Maryland web banner: 'Open your home to a child.' Contact BCDSS at 410-685-8231 or scan the QR code to learn more.

We are looking for loving, dedicated Resource Parents to partner with us!

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, nurturing home connected to family, community, and culture. At the Baltimore City Department of Social Services (BCDSS), our approach is centered around the belief that Family Matters. We are committed to a family-centered approach that prioritizes the child’s well-being while honoring their existing family relationships.

Maryland is a kin-first state and a national leader in prioritizing kinship care. We seek to keep children with their relatives or trusted family-like connections whenever possible. However, when a relative is not available, we need compassionate, committed Resource Parents like you to step forward.

Here’s how you can make a difference

A Resource Parent (or foster parent) is a vital partner who provides a temporary home for a child in need of assistance. Resource parents love, celebrate, mentor, coach, comfort, support and encourage the children in their home. They form a team with the child’s BCDSS family advocate (or caseworker), their supervisor, and biological parents to ensure the well-being of the child(ren) in their care. Our Resource Homes team will support you every step of the way.

If reunification with the biological family is not possible, we often look to Resource Parents to provide a permanent, loving home through adoption or guardianship.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, races, ethnicities and income levels, including couples, single adults, LGBTQ+ and older adults. Resource parents must:

  • Be at least 21 years old
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant
  • Reside in Baltimore City
  • Pass a criminal background check and Child Protective Services clearance (for all household members age 18 and older)
  • Be financially stable
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Be willing to support birth parents and the goal of reunification

Ready to learn more?

If you are a responsible, nurturing adult ready to embrace a child or sibling group and the importance of family connection, we need you! Your journey begins with a 90-minute Information Meeting, where you’ll learn more about the licensing process, required home inspections, and what it means to be a resource parent.
Ready to make a difference? Contact us today. We can’t wait to partner with you!

  • Fill out our interest form online so we can contact you.
  • Call our Welcome Line at 410-685-8231, Monday – Friday, to request a welcome packet or to RSVP for an upcoming Information Meeting.

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