At The Bair Foundation Child & Family Ministries, we’ve been serving foster children and families across Pennsylvania for decades. With offices in Harrisburg, Altoona, Pittsburgh, New Wilmington/Butler, York, and Erie, we walk alongside families through every step of the licensing process — offering training, guidance, and 24/7 support.

If you’re wondering how to become a foster parent in Pennsylvania, this guide will walk you through the process and help you see how The Bair Foundation can equip you to make an eternal impact.

“Families in Pennsylvania have the opportunity to make a lifelong impact through fostering. At The Bair Foundation, we’re here to guide you, answer your questions, and help you every step of the way.”
— Staci Murray, Intake Coordinator, The Bair Foundation – Pennsylvania

Is Foster Parenting in Pennsylvania Right for You?
Becoming a foster parent is more than providing a bed or a roof. It’s about stepping into a child’s life during one of their hardest seasons and showing them love, stability, and hope.

As a foster parent with The Bair Foundation, you become:

• An advocate — standing in the gap for children at school, in court, and in their day-to-day lives.
• A safe harbor — giving them the security they need when their world feels uncertain.
• A cheerleader — encouraging them at milestones, big or small.

Fostering requires patience, flexibility, and compassion that stretches your heart in new ways. But the joy of seeing a child begin to trust, heal, and grow is truly life-changing.

Requirements to Become a Foster Parent in Pennsylvania
The good news? Becoming a foster parent in Pennsylvania is less about being “perfect” and more about your ability to provide a safe, loving environment. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) sets requirements that ensure children are cared for in stable homes, and The Bair Foundation will guide you through meeting them.

To qualify, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Pass federal and state criminal background checks
• Complete child abuse clearances for everyone in your home age 14+
• Provide a recent medical exam showing you are physically able to parent
• Show financial stability (you don’t need to be wealthy or own a home)
• Complete foster parent training — typically 30–90 days with The Bair Foundation

Common myths, debunked:

• You don’t need to be married — single parents make excellent foster parents.
• You don’t need to own a home — renting is fine if your home passes a safety inspection.

What truly matters is your stability, commitment, and willingness to open your heart and home.

The Foster Care Process in Pennsylvania with The Bair Foundation
So, you’re ready to take the next step. Here’s what the journey looks like when you foster with The Bair Foundation:

1. Connect with The Bair Foundation

Your first step is reaching out to your local Bair office. We’ll invite you to an information meeting, where you can learn more about foster care, ask questions, and hear about the specific needs in your Pennsylvania community.

2. Application & Background Checks

Next, you’ll complete an application and provide important documents, such as a driver’s license, proof of income, and references. During this stage, background checks and clearances are also processed.

3. The Home Study

A home study may sound intimidating, but it’s simply an opportunity for us to get to know you. A Bair caseworker will meet with your family, review safety features in your home, and discuss your motivations and strengths. Think of it as preparation, not inspection.

4. Pre-Service Training

Pennsylvania requires foster parents to complete training before welcoming children into their homes. With Bair, you’ll receive about 24 hours of training that covers child development, trauma-informed care, and practical parenting strategies. We continue to provide ongoing training and support long after placement.

5. Matching & Placement

Once approved, you’ll begin the matching process. Bair’s team carefully works to connect children with families best equipped to meet their needs. You’ll have the opportunity to review information and say “yes” when you feel ready.

The Role of a Foster Parent in Pennsylvania
Foster parents with The Bair Foundation play a critical role, not just in daily care, but as part of a child’s professional support team. You’ll work alongside caseworkers, therapists, teachers, and medical professionals to ensure each child receives the care they deserve.

“Foster care isn’t just about providing a roof over a child’s head — it’s about showing them they are seen, valued, and loved. At The Bair Foundation, we walk alongside you every step of the way.” 

— Mary DeBernardo, Regional Program Director, The Bair Foundation – Pennsylvania

You may also:

• Advocate for the child in school and healthcare settings
• Provide transportation to visits with biological family members
• Support reunification when safe and possible
• Share updates with the child’s team to support their well-being

Through it all, you are not alone. The Bair Foundation provides 24/7 support, community connections, and ongoing resources to help you thrive as a foster parent.

Support and Financial Assistance for Foster Parents
Many people wonder if they can afford to foster. With The Bair Foundation, financial support is built into the process.

• Daily stipend: Foster parents receive a reimbursement to cover food, clothing, and other daily needs for the child.
• Healthcare coverage: Children in care are provided medical and dental coverage through Pennsylvania’s Medical Assistance program.
• Training & resources: Ongoing training and support groups are available at no cost.

This support allows you to focus on what matters most — providing stability, love, and encouragement to the children in your care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a foster parent and a resource parent?
In Pennsylvania, “resource parent” is a term used for foster, adoptive, and kinship caregivers. It emphasizes your role as a vital resource for children in need.

Can I choose the age or gender of the child I foster?
Yes. During your home study, you’ll discuss your preferences with a Bair caseworker, and placements will be matched accordingly.

Can I adopt through foster care?
Yes. Many foster parents with The Bair Foundation go on to adopt children in their care when reunification is not possible.

What if I work full-time?
That’s okay. Child care support is available, and many foster parents work outside the home. Your Bair team will help connect you with resources.

Answer God’s Call: Become a Foster Parent in Pennsylvania

Answering the call to become a foster parent is one of the most selfless, life-changing decisions you can make. By partnering with The Bair Foundation, you’ll have guidance, training, and support every step of the way.

Pennsylvania children are waiting for someone to open their hearts and homes. Will you be that person?

Take the first step today. Contact your local Bair Foundation office to learn how you can become a foster parent in Pennsylvania.