Questions for a Child Placing Agency (CPA) Virginia in 2026

Virginia Department of Social Services Regional Map 2026

AI Summary Read time: 13.5 minutes

This blog outlines ten important questions to ask a Child Placing Agency (CPA) before becoming a foster parent in Virginia. It emphasizes the importance of choosing an agency that prioritizes support, training, and long-term success over simply filling placements. The article encourages families to move at their own pace, avoid pressure, and find an agency aligned with their values. Key topics include 24/7 support, training quality, inclusivity, timelines, and agency experience.

10 questions to ask a Child Placing Agency before becoming a foster Parent.

Your local Child Placing Agencies (CPAs) in Virginia have over 100 service providers who care for more than 5,500 children in foster care who need a bed for the night within Virginia. These providers have the same legal obligations to the child and the foster parent. When looking for a CPA, it is best to search websites like FosterVA to see what investment they are making in your and your family's education, which will help you understand what you are taking on. Are they focused on you or filling beds? Making the match is crucial to making your dream of being a Foster Parent come true.

A potential foster family may take a few years to know you are ready to start the journey, or be prepared to start today. An agency that understands this is so important that you should never feel pressured to begin; it's all about you, and when you are ready. Becoming a foster parent will hurt you and a child if you are not prepared, and no one wants that. When you are prepared and selecting an agency, you need to ask ten questions:

How long have you been around
Do you have 24-hour support
Do you have religious requirements
Are you open to LGBTQ+ families
How do you do training
How long is the process?
How many families do you have at this time
How many staff (24-7 support)
Do you do activities with all the families, BBQ, etc.?
Why do you do this work? (look for passion)

I hope these ideas are helpful to you. When you are ready, go to our home page and become a foster parent in Virginia.

List of Child Placing Agencies in Virginia for 2026

Child Placing Agencies in Virginia

Richard Kingswell

Founder and CEO
Extra Special Parents | FosterVA

Find me on LinkedIn

Smiling foster children waiting for a home

Choosing the right agency is one of the most important steps in your fostering journey. Connect with a foster care advocate today to explore your options and find the support that fits your family.

What are you waiting for? Click here to help a child in need!