Begin Your Journey
Get Started as a Foster Family
You don't have to be perfect — you just have to care. Here's everything you need to know about becoming a licensed foster family with Foster First.
Why Foster?
One Family Can Change Everything
Right now, there are children in Eastern Washington who need a safe place to sleep, a warm meal, and someone who shows up for them every day. Foster families provide that — and so much more.
Fostering isn't easy, but it is one of the most meaningful things a family can do. And you won't do it alone. Foster First walks with you from your very first question to your very first placement — and every day after.
Below you'll find a step-by-step overview of the licensing process, answers to common questions, and everything you need to take the next step.
Hablamos Español!
The Process
Your Path to Becoming a Foster Family
The licensing process is thorough, because children deserve the very best. Here's what to expect, step-by-step.
Reach Out
The first step is simply getting in touch. Call us, fill out our inquiry form, or stop by our office. Our team will answer your questions and help you decide if fostering is the right fit for your family — no pressure, no commitment.
- Schedule an orientation
- No obligation to proceed
- All questions welcome
- Available in-person or virtually
Attend an Orientation
Schedule an orientation with one of our foster home licensors to learn more about becoming a foster family, what to expect during the licensing process, and how Foster First will support you every step of the way. Our licensors can meet you at a location that is convenient and comfortable for you—at your home, a local coffee shop, or one of our offices. During the orientation, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the next steps in your foster care journey.
- Learn about the foster care process
- Learn more about the Foster First team
- Learn more about the program and services
- Understand the commitment involved
Complete Your Application
When you are ready to move forward, you will complete a formal application. This process includes background checks for everyone in the household who is age 16 or older, personal references, and an initial interview with one of our foster home licensors.
- Complete an application
- Background checks for everyone that is 16 years and older
- Create a SAW account
- Initial licensing interview
Complete Pre-Service Training
All prospective foster families complete our pre-service training program. This training covers child development, trauma-informed care, behavior management, and the foster care system — equipping you with the knowledge and skills to support the children in your care. Below is not an exhaustive list, but an example of trainings that all prospective foster families will need to complete.
- Trauma-informed care fundamentals
- Child development and behavior support strategies
- Caregiver self-care trainings
- In-Person Training Required: Right Response, CPR & First Aid
Home Study
A licensing specialist will conduct a home study — a series of visits and interviews designed to ensure your home is safe and that your family is prepared to welcome a child. This is a collaborative and supportive process.
- Home safety assessment
- Family interviews
- Review household dynamics and caregiving approaches
- Collaborative and supportive process
Get Licensed & Welcome a Child
Once your home study is complete and approved, you'll receive your foster care license — and you'll be ready to welcome a child into your home. At first you can begin with providing short-term care, before welcoming a child into your home long-term. Our team will work with you to find a placement that's the right fit for your family, and we'll be with you every step of the way.
- Receive your foster care license
- Placement matching based on your family
- 24/7 on-call support
- Complete 30 hours of training each year
What You Need
Basic Requirements
Don't meet every requirement yet? Talk to our team — we may be able to help you get there.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Contact our team — we're happy to help.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Reach out to our team today. We'll answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you figure out if fostering is right for your family.