If you have ever wondered if a single person can become a foster parent in Georgia, the answer is yes.
Many people assume fostering is only for married couples, but that is not the case. Across Georgia, single adults are stepping into foster care and making a life-changing difference for children in need.
At Goshen Homes, single foster parents play an important role in serving children and keeping siblings connected. Whether you are just beginning to explore fostering or seriously considering it, here is what you need to know.
Are Single Adults Allowed to Foster in Georgia?
Georgia Division of Family & Children Services allows both single adults and married couples to become foster parents.
There is no requirement that you must be married to foster. What matters most is your ability to provide a safe, stable, and supportive home for a child.
At Goshen Homes, many single adults serve successfully as foster parents, especially in roles like respite care or as part of a strong support network.
If you want to learn more about fostering with Goshen, click here.
What Are the Requirements for Single Foster Parents in Georgia?
The requirements for single foster parents are the same as for married couples. To foster with Goshen Homes, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Pass background checks and fingerprinting
- Complete required training
- Successfully complete the home study and licensing process
- Have at least one open bedroom
- Commit to caring for two or more children
Because Goshen Homes focuses on sibling reunification, most primary foster parents commit to caring for 2 or more children in a sibling group. This is an important distinction from some other agencies.
Being single does not disqualify you. Instead, Goshen will work with you to ensure you are equipped and supported.
What Makes a Single Foster Parent Successful?
Being a single foster parent comes with unique strengths. Many single adults bring flexibility, intentionality, and strong relational skills into fostering.
At the same time, success often depends on having the right support system in place.
Strong single foster parents typically have:
- A reliable support network of friends, family, or church community
- A flexible work schedule or dependable childcare plan
- Emotional readiness to support children from hard places
- Willingness to ask for help when needed
At Goshen Homes, you are not expected to do this alone. The program is built to surround foster parents with support every step of the way.
Support Available for Single Foster Parents at Goshen Homes
One of the biggest concerns single adults have is whether they will have enough help. This is where fostering with Goshen Homes is different.
Goshen provides:
- Lower case manager caseloads for more personalized support
- On call staff when challenges arise
- Ongoing training opportunities
- Respite care to allow you time to recharge
- Foster parent support groups
- Community support including events and connection points
Respite care is especially valuable for single foster parents. It allows another licensed family to step in temporarily, so you can rest, travel, or reset when needed.
To explore Respite Care, click here.
Is It Hard to Foster as a Single Adult?
Fostering always comes with challenges, whether you are single or married. Children in foster care have often experienced trauma, loss, or instability, and they need consistent, compassionate care.
However, many single foster parents find the experience deeply meaningful and manageable with the right preparation and support.
Goshen Homes equips foster parents through NTDC training and Trust Based Relational Intervention, a trauma-responsive approach to care developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis. This helps you understand behavior, build trust, and create a stable environment for children in your care.
With the right tools and support, single adults can thrive in fostering.
Can Single Adults Foster Sibling Groups?
Yes, but this is an important consideration.
Because Goshen focuses on keeping siblings together, primary foster parents commit to caring for two or more children. For single adults, this means:
- Evaluating your schedule and capacity
- Building a strong support system
- Being open to using respite
Some single adults choose to begin as respite foster parents before transitioning into full time placements. This can be a great way to gain experience and confidence.
What If I Am Not Ready to Foster Full Time?
If you feel called to serve but are not ready for full time placement, there are still meaningful ways to get involved.
At Goshen Homes, you can:
- Serve as a respite foster parent
- Become an approved babysitter
- Support foster families in your community
These roles allow you to make an impact while exploring whether full time fostering is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Single Foster Parents in Georgia
Can I foster if I live alone?
Yes. Single adults who live alone can foster as long as they meet licensing requirements and have a safe home environment.
Do I need a large home to foster?
No. As long as you have one open bedroom, you may qualify. Children of the same gender can share a room.
Can I work full time and still foster?
Yes, but you will need a reliable childcare plan. Many single foster parents work full time and successfully foster with the right support.
Will I have help as a single foster parent?
Yes. Goshen Homes provides ongoing support, including case managers, and respite care.
Can I start with respite instead of full time fostering?
Absolutely. Many single adults begin with respite care as a flexible and meaningful way to serve.
Take the Next Step Toward Fostering in Georgia
If you are a single adult considering foster care in Georgia, you are not disqualified. You are needed.
Children in foster care need safe, stable homes, and many thrive under the care of dedicated single foster parents.
To learn more about fostering with Goshen Homes, click here.
You do not have to have a perfect situation to make a difference. You simply have to be willing to say yes.