Really Helpful Information for Foster Parents

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  Top Questions From Aspiring Foster Parents: What To Know

  Top Questions We Get About Fostering explains what matters most for foster families in Virginia, using clear language and real‑life context.  You'll learn about daily routines, school support, community resources, and ways to maintain a steady home life.  Turn big ideas into small, doable actions that reduce stress, strengthen relationships, and support healing and growth. It's practical, compassionate, and grounded in everyday situations.  Examples show what to say, what to do, and when to ask for help.

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  How Much do Foster Parents Get Paid in Virginia?

  Most foster parents in Virginia look into how much they are paid.  Foster parents are given a maintenance payment, which is not taxable, as it is not considered income.  Every child is evaluated based on their age, mental health needs, and other relevant factors.  Your child's social worker evaluates this.  The range is from $580 $861 per month, 2025 - 2026.

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  How Does Foster Care Work?

  In Virginia, foster care is a temporary service that protects children when their parents cannot care for them, often due to neglect, abuse, or unsafe homes.  The state's Department of Social Services establishes rules, while Child Placing Agencies (CPAs) manage day-to-day care, supervise foster homes, and coordinate services such as counseling or schooling.  System-level coordination among federal, state, and local agencies ensures that each child receives safe and stable support until they reunify with their family or find a permanent home.

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  Foster Care vs. Adoption in Virginia: Key Differences and How to Choose

  Bringing a child into your family is a huge decision. Understanding and accepting that a child is a blessing is significant. In Virginia, two primary ways of achieving this include foster care and adoption, both with their advantages and disadvantages and legal differences.