Become a foster parent in Salem, VA

About Salem

Salem, Virginia, with a population of about 25,000, is a unique independent city nestled in the Roanoke Valley of southwestern Virginia. Known for its small town atmosphere and beautiful mountain views, Salem offers a high quality of life with a strong sense of pride and community. The city is home to Roanoke College, adding a collegiate presence, and features cultural landmarks like the Salem Museum and Historical Society. Its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and outdoor activities make Salem a great choice for those who enjoy nature and history in equal measure.

For families, Salem has excellent public schools, numerous parks, and family friendly amenities. Longwood Park is a popular destination for playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails, while the Salem Civic Center hosts sports events, concerts, and community gatherings. The city also supports youth sports leagues and recreational programs through its Parks and Recreation Department. With seasonal events like Olde Salem Days and other family friendly festivals, Salem cultivates a welcoming environment that fosters strong connections among its residents. Salem is the perfect place to become a foster parent, and if you are considering this journey, contact us today!

Salem’s foster care services are administered through the Roanoke County Department of Social Services, as the two localities often collaborate on social programs. The region has approximately 60 children in foster care and is actively seeking foster families for children of all ages and needs. Foster families receive training, financial support, and access to resources, including counseling and educational services. Local organizations and FosterVA advocate for children and support foster families, ensuring children in care have stable, nurturing environments while striving for family reunification or permanent placements. Start your foster family or expand it today by reaching out to us!

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 Salem . 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 Salem ?

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 Salem , 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.