What’s the difference between foster care and adoption?

Being a foster parent means providing temporary care for a child.  Foster parents care for the daily needs of children (physical custody), but the legal responsibilities (legal custody) rests with the state.  Temporary care can mean a few days to a couple of years.

Being an adoptive parent means providing for daily care AND having legal responsibilities for a child.  This means making a commitment to a child for a lifetime!

Foster and adoptive parenting is a rewarding—but demanding—job.  The Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition offers parents much assistance, including support groups, training, advocacy, newsletters, two resale shops ([RE]FRESH and the KidStore), and the Little Wishes program.  This site is to serve as a resource center for your needs.

The Coalition wishes you the best of luck on this marvelous journey!