If you are wondering how to become a foster parent in Georgia, you are not alone. Many families feel called to foster but are unsure how to begin.
At Goshen Valley, we make the process clear, supportive, and community centered. As a licensed child placement agency serving Cherokee, Cobb, Bartow, Paulding, and Pickens Counties, Goshen focuses on keeping brothers and sisters together while equipping foster parents with the training and support they need to succeed.
If you are exploring foster care in Georgia, here is exactly what the process looks like with Goshen Valley.
Why Foster Care Is Needed in Georgia
Georgia Division of Family & Children Services oversees foster care throughout the state. When children enter care due to abuse or neglect, the primary goal is reunification whenever possible.
Unfortunately, 75 percent of siblings are separated when they enter foster care. Goshen Homes, a program of Goshen Valley, exists to change that reality. We recruit, train, and license families who are willing to care for sibling groups so brothers and sisters can remain together during their time in care.
When you foster with Goshen Valley, you are not just providing a safe home. You are protecting family bonds.
To learn more about our mission and approach to sibling reunification, click here!
Basic Requirements to Foster with Goshen Homes
To become a foster parent in Georgia 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
You do not need to own your home. Renting is completely acceptable as long as it meets safety standards.
Single adults can absolutely foster. Many of Goshen’s foster parents are single individuals who feel called to serve.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, the best first step is scheduling an information session.
Four Steps to Becoming a Foster Parent with Goshen Homes
Goshen keeps the process simple and supportive.
Step 1: Schedule an Information Session
The fostering process begins with a simple virtual call or meeting with a Goshen staff member. This conversation provides an opportunity to ask initial questions and become familiar with the team that will provide support throughout the journey.
To begin, email Foster@GoshenValley.org or click here!
Step 2: Complete Training and Trauma Informed Preparation
All prospective foster parents complete foster parent training. During these sessions, you will:
- Learn trauma informed parenting strategies
- Understand how to support reunification
- Collaborate with other foster families
- Gain practical tools for daily challenges
Goshen Valley also equips families with Trust Based Relational Intervention, an attachment-based, trauma informed model developed by Dr. Karyn Purvis. This training prepares you to care for children who have experienced hardship and instability.
By the end of training, you will feel prepared and supported.
Step 3: Licensing and Home Study
During the licensing stage, Goshen staff walk with you through:
- Paperwork and documentation
- Background checks
- Home safety preparation
- Interviews and home study visits
Goshen case managers maintain lower than average caseloads so they can provide more individualized support during licensing and beyond.
Step 4: Placement and Ongoing Support
Once licensed, you are eligible to receive placement calls.
Many families complete the whole process in about four months, depending on scheduling and responsiveness.
Because Goshen Valley is a sibling reunification agency, primary foster parents commit to caring for two or more children. This ensures brothers and sisters remain together.
Support does not stop after placement. Goshen provides:
- Ongoing training
- On call staff support
- Respite coordination
- Approved babysitting options
- Community supported date nights
You are never fostering alone.
Two Ways to Serve Through Goshen Homes
Not everyone begins as a full-time foster parent. Goshen offers multiple ways to serve.
Primary Foster Parent
Primary foster parents provide full time care for sibling groups placed in their home.
Respite Foster Parent
Respite parents are fully licensed but provide short term care for date nights, emergencies, or temporary coverage. This flexible role is a powerful way to serve without full time placement.
There is more than one way to make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fostering with Goshen Homes
How much room do I need to foster?
Children of the same gender may share a bedroom. As long as you have one open bedroom, you may qualify.
What counties does Goshen Homes serve?
Goshen licenses homes in Cherokee, Cobb, Bartow, Paulding, and Pickens Counties in Georgia.
Can I foster if I rent my home?
Yes. Home ownership is not required.
Can single adults become foster parents?
Yes. Single adults are welcome to foster, especially in respite roles.
How long does the licensing process take?
Many families are licensed in approximately four months.
Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Foster Parent in Georgia
If you feel called to keep siblings together and serve children in foster care, your first step is simple.
You can change the story for siblings in foster care in Georgia. Goshen Homes will walk with you every step of the way.