How to Start Fostering in Texas: The Official First Step

Most foster parents say the same thing about the beginning: they didn't have it all figured out. They heard about the need and took one small step.

In Texas, DFPS describes that first step plainly.

Step 1: Attend a free information meeting

DFPS invites prospective families to "attend a free foster/adopt Information Meeting." Its Information Meetings page lists meetings in your area along with local contacts and events. You can ask anything. There's no commitment.

Step 2: Choose who you'll work with

You can work with DFPS directly or with a private agency that partners with DFPS. Many Texas foster homes are verified through private child-placing agencies, so it's worth meeting more than one and asking about training, support and the children they serve.

Step 3: Check the requirements

DFPS keeps the official list of requirements for foster/adopt families. We link to it instead of copying it, because requirements change and a wrong first step costs trust.

Where the need is

The Texas explorer shows children in care, removals and adoptions for all 254 counties. Teens and sibling groups wait longest for families. If you can open your home to a teenager or keep brothers and sisters together, say so at the information meeting.

Not ready to foster?

Respite care, mentoring, supporting a kinship family, or giving a foster family a night off all keep placements stable. Ask the agency what local families need most.