Foster Navigation
Foster Parenting Is One of the Most Meaningful Things You Can Do.
You shouldn't have to figure it out alone. So, whether you're already fostering or just starting to explore the idea, Friends of Foster Children is here to support you every step of the way.
About The Foster Navigation Program
Foster parenting gives a child something every child deserves: a safe, stable, and loving place to land during one of the most uncertain times of their life. It's a profound commitment — and one that can feel overwhelming without the right support behind you.
Our Foster Navigation program exists to provide that support. We walk alongside current foster families with resources and guidance, and we actively recruit new families — because the need in Palm Beach County is real, and every child deserves a home close to the community they know.
When children can stay within Palm Beach County, they can maintain connections to their school, neighborhood, and places of worship. They can visit with their parents in person as families work toward reunification. These details matter enormously to a child's development — especially during what may be the most difficult season of their life.
In 2025, our Foster Navigation team dedicated 480 hours to recruiting new foster families across Palm Beach County.
Support For Foster Families
At FFC, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our ongoing guidance ensures you’re never alone. Our mission of “fostering happy childhoods” remains at the forefront while offering support to those who provide care to our most vulnerable population- children experiencing foster care.
Danielle Gifford, our Foster Navigator, is waiting to hear from you. Reach out and get all your questions answered.
We're Here for You at Every Step.
All open foster homes throughout Palm Beach County are eligible for free services and support through Friends of Foster Children. You are never alone in this.
Already Fostering?
What We Provide:
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Monthly support group
Offered virtually to provide ongoing support and additional training for foster parents.
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Emergency Bags
For new placements: age-appropriate clothing, pajamas, underwear, socks, uniforms, school supplies, hygiene products, blankets, diapers, wipes, and more.
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Equipment
Car seats, strollers, cribs, pack n plays, walkers, jumpers, swings, etc. (subject to availability).
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Clothing Closet
Thanks to the gracious support of our community, we keep a fully stocked closet of gently used clothing and shoes that our families can access.
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Special Family Events
Tickets to Foster Family Night at the South Florida Fair, the Kravis Center, Palm Beach Zoo, Cox Science Center & Aquarium, Back to School events, and community partner events throughout the year.
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Holidays & Birthdays
Valentine’s bags, Halloween costumes, Thanksgiving food baskets, and Winter Holiday gifts.
We will have a gift for the birthday child in your care.
The Friends Circle Membership Program
Still Part of the Family — Even After a Case Closes.
For families who have adopted or whose cases have ended, our annual membership program keeps you connected to the community, resources, and support you need.
You Don't Have to Be Perfect. You Just Have to Be Willing.
There are more children in Palm Beach County who need foster homes than there are families to welcome them. If you've ever considered fostering, we want to answer your questions — honestly and without pressure.
Considering Foster Care?
Here's what you need to know to get started:
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You're Eligible If You:
Are 21 years of age or older
Are a Florida resident
Can pass a background check
Have space in your home for a child.
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Misconceptions — Busted:
You don't have to own your home
You don't have to be married
You don't have to have children of your own
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What Fostering Looks Like:
Providing a safe, stable, and loving home environment
Collaborating with a supportive team around the child
Being a bridge that helps keep families connected
Making a difference that lasts a lifetime
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you want to learn more or are ready to start the process, we'd love to hear from you. Click the link below to complete an interest form, and our Foster Navigator will be in touch.
Common Questions About Fostering
We know you have questions. Here are honest answers to the ones we hear most often.
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No. Single individuals can absolutely become foster parents. However, a single foster parent is required by law to identify a backup sitter who is available to support them when needed. That person must be background screened and approved by the Department of Children and Families.
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The number and ages of children placed in your home is based on your home's capacity, your skills and stamina as a caregiver, and your physical accommodations. Generally, there should be no more than five total children in the home — including your own biological children — and no more than two infants under the age of two.
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Each child must have their own bed and adequate storage for their belongings. Children in care cannot share a bedroom with any adult, except for infants 12 months or younger. Any child over the age of three must not share a bedroom with a child of the opposite sex.
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There are no strict age restrictions, but your age will be considered in relation to your health, physical energy, flexibility, and ability to care for a specific child over the duration of a placement.
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All members of your household will be asked to share health history, including physical and mental health. A medical release from your physician confirming you are able to care for a child in your home will be required.
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Foster parents must have sufficient income to support their own family's stability — without relying on the foster care stipend. Your income should be sufficient to cover 4–6 weeks of a child's expenses until reimbursement begins.
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Foster parents must be willing to support a child's participation in the faith of their choice, or the faith requested by the birth family. Foster parents whose religious beliefs preclude the use of licensed medical physicians for foster children may not be licensed.
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You must have a detailed, approved plan for meeting the child's transportation needs — including medical and dental appointments, school pickup, extracurricular activities, therapy, and family visitation. All vehicles must be in safe, legal condition. Proof of liability insurance and a valid driver's license is required. Every child under age 4 must be transported in an appropriate car seat.
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If married, foster parents should have a stabilized legal marriage of at least one year before seeking licensure. If you have recently been divorced, widowed, or experienced the loss of a child, you will be asked to wait one year before applying.