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Become A Foster Parent In Big Stone Gap, VA

Offering a safe place to stay can spark hope that lasts a lifetime.

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About Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap, Virginia, is a quaint town in Wise County with a population of around 5,000. In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, it's a place where history, culture, and natural beauty come together to create a warm and inviting community. Families can explore the town's coal mining heritage at the Southwest Virginia Museum, enjoy outdoor adventures at Powell Valley Overlook, or take in a performance at the historic Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama. With affordable housing, low crime rates, and a friendly atmosphere, Big Stone Gap is an excellent place to raise children in a safe and supportive environment.

For foster families, Big Stone Gap is served by the Wise County Department of Social Services, which provides essential resources and support for children in need of stable, loving homes. Organizations like FosterVA and Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) offer training, advocacy, and guidance to foster parents. Local churches and community groups also play an important role, providing mentorship programs, emergency assistance, and a strong support system for foster families. The town’s close knit nature ensures that children in foster care feel embraced and supported by the entire community.

Families in Big Stone Gap have plenty of opportunities to bond and create lasting memories. The town hosts festivals and events like the Gathering in the Gap Music Festival, celebrating Appalachian heritage with live music and storytelling. Families can also enjoy the Greenbelt Trail, a scenic path along the Powell River perfect for walking and biking. Schools and libraries in the area emphasize community involvement and educational support, ensuring that all children, including those in foster care, receive the attention and resources they need to thrive.

With its strong sense of community, dedicated foster care resources, and numerous recreational and educational opportunities, Big Stone Gap is a wonderful place for foster children and caregivers. The town's commitment to family, safety, and child welfare ensures that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. Start your journey to becoming a foster parent in Big Stone Gap 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 Big Stone Gap . 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 Big Stone Gap ?

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 Big Stone Gap , 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.


Start the process today to become a Foster Parent

Family Friendly Events and Places of Interest

  • Barter Theatre

    Located in nearby Abingdon, the Barter Theatre is one of the nation's oldest professional theaters, offering a variety of performances year-round.

  • Big Stone Gap Visitor Center

    Serving as a gateway to the town, the visitor center provides information on local attractions, history, and events, making it a great starting point for exploring the area.

  • Duck Park 9 Hole Disc Golf Course

    For outdoor enthusiasts, this disc golf course offers a fun and challenging experience amidst the natural beauty of Big Stone Gap.

  • Harry W. Meador Jr. Coal Museum

    Dedicated to the region's coal mining heritage, this museum features exhibits on mining equipment, memorabilia, and the history of coal mining in Southwest Virginia.

  • John Fox Jr. Museum

    The former home of the noted author John Fox Jr., this museum offers insights into his life and works, including "The Trail of the Lonesome Pine."

  • June Tolliver House & Craft Shop

    This historic house, associated with the "Trail of the Lonesome Pine" story, now serves as a craft shop featuring local artisans' work and offers tours showcasing its history.

  • Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Center

    This heritage center preserves the educational history of the region, featuring exhibits from various schools and educational artifacts from the past.

  • Powell Valley Overlook

    This scenic overlook offers breathtaking panoramic views of Powell Valley, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.

  • Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park

    Housed in a 19th-century Victorian stone mansion, this museum showcases over 60,000 artifacts detailing the exploration and development of Southwest Virginia from the 1700s through the mining boom of the late 1800s.

  • Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama

    As the official outdoor drama of Virginia, this production brings to life the story of the early days of the Appalachian region, based on John Fox Jr.'s novel.