Become a Foster / Adoptive Parent in Illinois
Thank you for considering foster care and adoption in Illinois. The Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition is an award-winning and nationally recognized agency that recruits and supports foster and adoptive families. We’re happy to answer your questions about foster care and adoption. We’re here to guide you through this rewarding journey.
Foster care in Illinois is a temporary arrangement. Adults provide for the care of children whose parent is unable to care for them. While foster care is a temporary, adoption is making a lifelong commitment to the care of a child.
Illinois Service Area
Our agency proudly serves the Southern Illinois counties of Clinton, Bond, Madison, Monroe, Washington, St. Clair, and Randolph.
Basic Requirements
Please review the basic requirements for fostering or adopting in Illinois:
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You must be at least 21 years of age
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Free of child abuse/neglect or criminal history *Some offenses do not eliminate applicants
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Employed or have adequate income
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With or without birth children
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Able to accommodate additional children in your home
- Willing to attend 39 hours of pre-service training
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Willing to participate in a home study
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Willing to provide personal, employer and medical references
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Complete a financial verification form
- Able to purchase items required for licensing, such as smoke alarms, fire extinguisher, beds, etc
Next Steps
If you meet the basic requirements for fostering or adopting, and you reside in the Illinois counties of Clinton, Bond, Madison, Monroe, Washington, St. Clair, or Randolph, please review the information and pages below.
FAQS & Myths
Review frequently asked questions and myths about foster care and adoption
Process
All foster and adoptive parents are licensed. Learn how parents are licensed.
Training
Foster and adoptive parents in are asked to attend 39 hours of pre-service training.
Get Started
Fill out a contact form and inquire about becoming a foster or adoptive parent.