Why become a San Francisco foster family
Most children and youth in foster care are in the process of reunification with their families. That process that can take from a few weeks to many years. For most children, even a day without a loving and supportive family can feel like an eternity.
The challenges are even greater for San Francisco’s children and youth in foster care. Due to a shortage of foster families in the City, too many of our children and youth in foster care get placed in other counties. This separates them from their relatives, friends, and school.
When you become a foster parent in San Francisco, you allow a child to maintain those connections while building positive new ones. By providing a safe and stable home, you’ll see the child placed in your care learn, trust, and grow in extraordinary ways.
We’re here to help at every step
Here at the San Francisco Human Services Agency (HSA), we’re ready to answer all your questions and assist you at all stages of the foster care process.
Eligibility: We welcome all qualified applicants including women and men, LGBTQ+, couples, singles, people from all ethnicities and backgrounds, and older adults.
Costs: HSA’s certification process is free and can be completed mostly online.
Ready to get in touch?
Give us a call at (415) 558-2200 or
email us at Fosterinfo@sfgov.org.
Ready to apply?
Register to access online forms
Attend an orientation
Orientations are scheduled in person or through a virtual presentation, email fosterinfo@sfgov.org to schedule an orientation and ensure we meet all your information needs.