Teens in foster care need you right now!
Teens have often been in the foster care system the longest of any group. Teens may have been without stable and consistent role models through the most critical stages of their lives. You have the potential to make a significant impact on a foster teen's life.
Be there now, when you're needed the most.
Call us now at 877.380.4376
Fostering a teen can change your life... and theirs
Teens in the foster care system are among the least likely to find a home. Nearly 5,000 young adults in California "age out" of the foster care system, many without ever having known a stable home. Fostering a teen may not be your first choice, but the rewards in doing so can last a lifetime.
The right foster family can provide guidance and direction for a teen who is struggling. We've all had those special people in our lives, the ones who find us at just the right time and help us navigate our most difficult times. You have the potential to become that person in the life of a teen in foster care.
Requirements to Become a Foster Family
Aspiranet works with foster families regardless of ethnic background, education level, sexual orientation, relationship status (single, married, partnered), job status (full or part-time), or homeownership.
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Parent(s) must be 21 years or older
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Should have adequate space in their home for a child
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All adults over 18 must clear a background check
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Parent(s) must have a valid California driver's license, DMV record, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance
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Parent(s) will need to successfully complete Aspiranet foster parent classes, CPR and first aid classes, family interviews and assessments, and a home inspection
The Hard Truth About Teens in Foster Care
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45% of foster children live in non-relative foster homes
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10% of foster children spend more than 5 years in foster care
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22% of youth in foster care are age 13 or older
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The average age of a child entering foster care is 7 to 8 years old
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Over 437,000 children and youth are in foster care in the United States
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More boys than girls are in the foster care system (52% to 48%)
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61% of the children removed from their home are due to abusive neglect
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12% of the children removed from their home are due to physical abuse
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Of youth who age out of the foster care system, 25% are incarcerated within 2 years, and only 50% graduate from high school
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Children and adolescents with foster care experience are diagnosed with PTSD at twice the rate of US war veterans