Every Child Deserves to Feel Safe
Foster parenting is a chance to give a child the love, stability, and care they need while they heal. You don't have to do it alone. We’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.
What Foster Care Really Means
Caring for a child is more than providing a place to stay. It's about helping them feel safe, seen, and supported.
Foster care gives children and youth a temporary, stable home when their own families are unable to provide one. These children may have experienced trauma, loss, or crisis. What they need most is patience, understanding, and a safe space to begin healing. Foster parents work alongside social workers and other members of the professional team that surrounds each child with consistent support and care. While the goal is always to reunite families when possible, foster care ensures no child is left without a home during their most vulnerable time.
"Maple Star has an incredible support system.. not just for the kids in their care but for their parents as well!"
- Laura Bryant,
Maple Star Foster Parent
What Foster Care Is Not
Foster care is often misunderstood. Let’s clear that up.
Foster care is not adoption. It is also not the same as kinship care, where a child is placed with someone they already know. Most foster placements are temporary and designed to support children while their families work toward stability. Some placements last a few days, others a year or more. In every case, the goal is to provide care until it is safe for the child to return home or move forward with a permanent plan. Foster care is not a perfect solution, but it is a powerful act of love that makes a lasting difference.
Why People Choose to Foster
Every foster parent has their own story. But they all believe that every child deserves to feel safe, loved, and supported.
Some people foster because they feel called to give back.
Others have raised children of their own and want to create space for someone new.
Many simply believe that no child should go through hard times alone.
Foster parents are everyday people who make an extraordinary choice.
They step in when a child needs stability, care, and healing.
With guidance from Maple Star and the support of a dedicated care team, foster parents are never left to figure it out on their own.
They are part of a circle of care that surrounds both them and the children in their home.
Watch Our Introduction to Fostering Session
Foster parenting can change a child’s life and yours.
If you're exploring the idea, this free info session is the perfect way to start. We'll walk you through what fostering involves, the support you’ll receive, and what to expect at each step.
Who Can
Become a Foster Parent?
Foster parents come from many walks of life. What matters most is your ability to provide care, consistency, and compassion.
You are at least 25 years old
Foster parents must meet the minimum age requirement to apply.
You have a stable home environment
You can rent or own your home. What matters is that it's safe, welcoming, and has a dedicated bedroom available for fostering.
You are emotionally and physically healthy
Fostering can be demanding. We look for caregivers who are steady, adaptable, and ready to support others.
One adult is home full time
Because foster care often includes appointments, school meetings, and care needs during the day, someone in the home must be available.
You can pass background and safety checks
We help guide you through the screening and home study process.
You are open to learning and support
No one is expected to have all the answers. Our team walks with you, step by step.
Instead of growing in my belly, they grew in my heart.
- Jean Webster, Maple Star Foster Parent
What It Takes
Foster parenting isn’t always easy. But it changes lives for the child and for you.
Foster parenting takes love and patience.
Many children in care have faced trauma, loss, or instability. It takes time for them to trust again. Your calm, steady presence is the foundation they need to heal.
It takes flexibility and commitment.
From appointments to school needs to unexpected emotions, every week brings something new. Foster parents stay open, grounded, and ready to adapt.
It takes teamwork.
You won’t do this alone. Maple Star surrounds each foster parent with a team of professionals who guide, support, and walk with you every step of the way.
I foster because as an immigrant I wanted to give back to the country that adopted me.
- Pauline Williams, Maple Star Foster Parent
How to
Become a Foster Parent
The process takes time, but you’ll have support every step of the way.
1.
Submit Your Application
Tell us about your interest and your household. We’ll walk you through what’s needed.
2.
Home Consultation
A Maple Star team member visits your home to answer questions and begin the assessment.
3.
Background Checks and References
You’ll complete a police check, a Children’s Aid record check, and submit five personal references.
4.
Orientation and Training
Complete 40 hours of training delivered through a mix of online and in-person sessions. CPR and First Aid certification are also required.
5.
Home Study and Safety Checks
We review your home, your environment, and your readiness to foster with a thorough home study.
6.
Approval and Matching
Once approved, we’ll work with you to identify the right fit for your first foster placement.
Support You Can Count On
Foster parenting comes with challenges. That’s why we make sure you have what you need — emotionally, financially, and professionally.
24/7 Case Manager Access
A dedicated case manager is available day and night to answer questions and guide you through challenges.
Weekly Check-ins and Home Visits
You’re never left wondering what to do. Our team regularly visits and supports your progress.
On-Call Emergency Support
Emergencies don’t wait. Neither do we.
Access to Child and Youth Workers
Specialized support staff help children adjust, heal, and thrive while you care for them.
Educational Support and Tutoring
We help children succeed at school with one-on-one tutoring as needed.
Compensation That Respects Your Time and Care
We understand that opening your home to a child comes with new responsibilities. That’s why Maple Star provides daily, tax-free compensation along with essential supports to help you provide the best possible care.
$63 - $75 Per Day
Tax Free
In addition to your daily rate, you’ll also receive:
Clothing allowance
Coverage for prescription medication and dental care
Recreational programming support
One paid day of respite for every 15 days of care
“The financial support helped us say yes. The emotional support helped us keep going.”
— Maple Star Foster Parent
Still Have Questions?
You’re Not Alone.
These are some of the most common questions we hear from prospective foster parents.
1. What kind of children are referred to Maple Star for foster care?
Children of all ages, from infants to teens, are referred to Maple Star. Many have experienced emotional or behavioral challenges and are looking for a safe, stable environment where they can begin to heal.
2. What qualifications do your caregivers have?
Some placements last a few days, while others can continue for a year or more. The goal is to support each child until they can return home or move on to a permanent care plan.
3. Can I choose which child is placed in my home?
Yes. You will receive detailed information before any placement is made. The final decision is made together with you, the child (when appropriate), the case manager, and the referring worker.
4. Can I foster if I’m single?
Absolutely. Foster parents can be single, married, or partnered. What matters most is that you can provide a supportive, safe home.
5. Do I need to own my home?
No. You can rent or own. What’s required is a stable, welcoming environment that meets home safety guidelines.
6. Will I be expected to work with the child’s biological family?
In most cases, yes. Part of foster care includes helping maintain healthy connections when possible. This can involve phone calls, visits, or attending meetings.
7. What if I work full time?
One adult in the household must be available full time to care for the child. Many appointments, visits, and school needs take place during the day.
8. Is fostering the same as adopting?
No. Fostering is meant to be temporary. While some foster placements may eventually lead to adoption, that is not the primary goal.
Your Heart Could Be the Home a Child Needs
Foster parenting is one of the most meaningful ways to change a life. If you’ve ever thought about it, now is the time to take the first step. We’re here to guide you through every part of the journey.