Become a foster parent in Bedford County, VA

About Bedford County

Bedford County, Virginia, in between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Smith Mountain Lake, is a family friendly community with a population of around 80,000. Known for its natural beauty and historical significance, Bedford County offers an excellent quality of life with outdoor recreation, schools, and a welcoming atmosphere. Families can explore the Peaks of Otter for hiking and scenic views, visit the National D-Day Memorial to learn about history, or enjoy water activities at Smith Mountain Lake. With affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, and a great community, Bedford County is an ideal place for families to settle and grow.

For foster families, Bedford County provides vital support through the Bedford County Department of Social Services, working to place children in loving and stable homes. Organizations like CASA of Central Virginia and FosterVA offer advocacy, training, and resources to foster parents, helping them navigate the challenges of caregiving. Local churches and community groups also play an essential role, offering mentorship, financial assistance, and support programs to help foster families feel connected and empowered.

Families in Bedford County have numerous opportunities to enjoy quality time together. The county hosts various community events, including the Bedford Centerfest and Christmas Parade, which bring families together for fun and celebration. The Bedford Public Library and the county's well regarded school system provide strong academic and enrichment programs, ensuring that all children, including those in foster care, have access to a quality education. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the county's many parks, trails, and recreation centers for year round activities.

With its stunning landscapes, tight community, and dedicated foster care support, Bedford County is a wonderful place for foster children and caregivers. The county's commitment to education, recreation, and child welfare ensures that every child, especially those in foster care, has the opportunity to grow in a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment. Consider becoming a foster parent in Bedford today!

Why Choose FosterVA

FosterVA is a campaign started by Extra Special Parents (a licensed child placing agency) to raise awareness of Virginia’s need for great foster families, especially in Bedford County . Great foster parents make a difference in a youth’s ability to develop resiliency, which allows them to survive and thrive with the right support.

We have a support group that meets monthly for all foster families and respite care for yourself. Our support includes Individual clinical case managers and a crisis line manned 24/7/365. These tried and tested systems are put in place to ensure you and the child are supported during this journey as a foster parent.

Can I foster a child in Bedford County ?

Find out if you qualify to become a foster parent! Becoming a foster parent is a challenging and enriching experience for you and all family members. You can make a huge difference and change a child's life for the better, especially for sibling groups and older children in foster care programs. If you care about children and want to help them, fostering a child is an extraordinary calling.

Children in the foster care system have been through traumatic experiences. They need a loving home to help them recover and thrive. Providing a home for a child can be heartwarming and beautiful when you start to see them succeed in your care. If you have the heart and a home for a child in Bedford County , VA please contact us to learn more about our process.

Our parents come from all works of life, and your work and life experience will enhance what you bring to being a foster parent. So please never think that your life experience is unsuitable for a child in foster care, with nearly 5000 kids in the Virginia Department of social services care. We will find a child that will be great for you or your family.