foster care program
service overview
Thompson has long been the largest provider of foster care services in North Carolina, and we continue to expand
foster parenting
Becoming a foster parent is more than opening your home—it’s opening your heart to make a profound and lasting difference in the life of a child. Foster parenting offers the chance to provide stability, love, and hope to children who have faced significant challenges. It’s a journey of compassion, patience, and growth, where you’ll not only change a child’s life but enrich your own in ways you never imagined.
Thompson’s Foster Care team walks alongside you every step of the way
Our Foster Care team offers comprehensive training, guidance on the certification process, ongoing support, and a community of care to foster parents. Together, we can empower children to thrive, nurture families to grow, and build stronger, healthier communities.
fostering approaches
The number of foster children continues to rise and the need for foster families becomes more crucial. Children who are removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect carry the weight of broken trust. Each positive interaction they experience in a safe, loving home helps them rebuild that trust and move closer to healing. By simply offering a space filled with love and stability, you become a crucial part of their journey, helping to mend the wounds that will allow them to impact many lives in the future.
traditional foster care
therapeutic foster care
Children and youth ages 0–21 who need structured interventions and therapeutic support to help them overcome emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. Foster parents in this program partner with therapists and case managers to provide a healing and empowering environment. Their goal is to help the child build coping skills, resilience, and confidence to achieve long-term success.
teen supports
A short-term (6–9 months) placement program designed for high-needs youth ages 7–18. This program provides intensive daily therapeutic support for both the youth and their foster families, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to work through challenges. Foster parents in this program play a critical role in helping teenagers build trust, self-esteem, and the skills needed to move forward positively.
foster care
frequently asked questions
We know that becoming a foster parent—or simply learning more about the process—can come with a lot of questions. Whether you’re wondering about requirements, training, or what daily life as a foster parent looks like, you’re not alone. We’ve compiled answers to some of the most common questions we hear from prospective families, community partners, and supporters. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, our team is just a call or message away. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
Why foster with Thompson?
- Comprehensive training and 24/7 support
- Financial assistance and Medicaid coverage for the child
- Guidance through the licensing process
- Opportunities to foster children of all ages and backgrounds
What are the requirements to become a foster parent?
Foster parents must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Pass background checks and a home study
- Have a stable income and a safe home environment
- Complete required foster care training
How long does the licensing process take?
Can I foster if I’m single, renting, or have other children?
Yes! Foster parents can be single, married, or cohabitating. You can rent or own your home, and you may have biological or adopted children.
What ages and backgrounds are the children in need of foster care?
Children range from newborns to 18 years old. Many have experienced trauma or neglect, and there is a high need for foster parents willing to care for older children and sibling groups.
What support does Thompson provide?
- Pre-licensing training and ongoing education
- 24/7 crisis support and case management
- Therapy and counseling resources
- Respite care when needed
How long do children stay in foster care?
Placements can last from a few days to several months or longer. The length of stay depends on the child’s circumstances and the goal of reunification or adoption.
Do foster parents receive financial assistance?
What if a placement isn’t the right fit?
How does the reunification process work?
How do I get started?
Step 1: Submit an application
Step 2: Attend an information session
Step 3: Complete pre-licensing training
Step 4: Pass background checks and a home study
Step 5: Get licensed and welcome a child into your home!
Take your first step today and Start Your Foster Journey
foster care
resources
Providing families & children with resources to grow, learn, and support one another.
foster care
triumphs
See how others just like you have changed the lives of children by fostering. Read Thompson triumphs, stories of how Thompson made positive impacts on the lives of children and families.
