Foster
Fostering can pave the way for a child’s future.
ABOUT
Foster Care
Every child deserves a safe, loving home. We license, train, and walk alongside foster families so children have the support they need.
WHY FOSTER WITH US
You won't do this alone.
We've been doing this since 1916, over 110 years of walking alongside foster families in Chicago. Our team knows what families need and how to provide it, whether you're brand new to fostering or have done it before.
We provide the training, tools, and ongoing coaching to prepare you for every step of the journey. Foster parents receive a monthly stipend, and DCFS covers medical care and educational expenses for every child in your home.
GET INVOLVED
Open your home.
Change a child's story.
Foster parents are the heart of what we do. We'll train you, walk beside you, and support you every step of the way.
How foster care works at Lydia Home
From inquiry to placement, we're with you every step of the way.
Attend an information session
Join one of our upcoming sessions to learn what fostering or fostering to adopt looks like, ask questions, and meet our team. There's no commitment required.
Complete the application
Choose the type of license you'd like to pursue, and submit your formal application alongside our licensing team to begin the process. Our team will guide you through every requirement and answer questions along the way.
Training & onboarding
Complete required DCFS trainings and let us help you prepare to help a child in need. The full licensing process takes four to six months depending on the type of license you are pursuing.
Get licensed & receive a placement
Once licensed, you'll be matched with a child based on your experience, preferences, and what our team believes will be the best fit. Your license is valid for four years.
Ongoing support from our team
You're never alone. Our staff provides 24/7 support, regular check-ins, and continued training so you have everything you need to care for the child in your home.
"Do not be deterred by the fear of loving a child who might leave. Instead, be driven by the fear of a child needing love. Help us stand in the gap."
LYDIA HOME FOSTER CARE TEAM
Do I qualify to be a foster parent?
You don't need to be perfect, you just need to be committed. Individuals and couples meeting the following criteria are both welcome to apply.
Did you know?
DCFS provides assistance for work-related daycare expenses for foster parents who work full time.
Find the right fit for your family.
Lydia Home offers two pathways into foster care. Both provide a child with a safe, loving home.
Attend a free information session
Our information sessions are the best way to learn what fostering with Lydia Home looks like. You'll hear from our team, get your questions answered, and meet other families who are considering the same step.
There's no commitment required. Just come ready to learn.
What to expect
Overview of Lydia Home's foster care program and our approach
Walk-through of the licensing process, requirements, and timeline
Open Q&A with our foster care team
GET INVOLVED
Ready to open your home?
The first step is attending one of our free information sessions — available in person or virtually. Come with questions; there are no commitments.