The Journey: What to Expect

Step 1: Reach Out

The first step is simply a conversation. Contact Union County Social Services to let us know you're interested — no commitment required. We'll answer your questions, share what the process looks like, and help you decide if fostering feels right for your family.

Submit an online inquiry form.

Step 2: Attend an Orientation Class

Before anything else, come meet us. Orientation is free and low-pressure, it's a chance to learn about foster care in Union County, ask every question on your mind, and get a clear picture of what the journey ahead looks like.

Step 3: Pre-Service Training

All foster parents complete required training before receiving their license — typically around 30 hours. It's provided at no cost and covers child development, trauma-informed care, navigating the foster care system, and more. Most families say it was one of the most meaningful parts of the whole process.

Step 4: Health Check

Every adult and child living in your home will complete a physical exam. All adults in the household will also need a TB skin test. Children only need one if an adult in the home tests positive.

Step 5: Prepare Your Home

This step ensures your home is safe and ready for a child. It includes a fire marshal inspection, an environmental conditions checklist, and a home assessment by a social worker. You'll also need to make sure your home has phone access, keep pets current on their rabies vaccinations, and secure any bodies of water such as pools or ponds with appropriate fencing. All adult household members will complete fingerprinting and a criminal background check as part of this step.

Step 6: Get Licensed — and Know We're With You

After training, health checks, and a successful home preparation are complete, you'll receive your foster care license from the State of North Carolina. As a licensed foster parent, you'll commit to ongoing training requirements including CPR, First Aid, Universal Precautions, and Shared Parenting, and you'll sign confidentiality and discipline agreements.

And then the real journey begins with Union County Social Services beside you every step of the way. Regular check-ins, resources and support are always available. You will never do this alone.