Foster and Kinship Care

Children are temporarily removed from their homes and placed in foster care for a variety of reasons. They may be experiencing abuse or neglect, or parents may be unable to care for them due to domestic violence, medical issues, substance abuse or other unique circumstances. Foster parents provide temporary care that can have a lifelong, positive impact on youth.

Children in foster care live with their relatives, foster parents, or – if neither of these is available – in group facilities. With education and support for the birth parents, more than half of children who go into foster care return to their birth families.

There are also specialized types of foster care, which often require different skill sets like training in education, social work or trauma. Learn more about specialized foster care below.

Kin are relatives or others who have a “family-like” relationship with a child. As kinship providers, they agree to nurture and protect children who are in current or impending danger with their parent(s) or caregivers. Because they share close ties, kinship providers can care for children in a way that respects cultural values and helps maintain significant relationships in a child’s life. When a child or youth is in need of out-of-home placement, we always look first to place a child with kin. 

Adoptions of children in our care typically occur only after every measure is exhausted to keep them safely with their parents. When that cannot happen, we may seek to place those children permanently with one of our foster parents.

We are the only public source for adoption in Denver. All of our adoptive parents must start with our agency as foster parents. 

To be considered as a certified foster parent in Denver, you must:

• Be 21 or older
• Be physically and emotionally healthy
• Be financially stable
• Be a US citizen or resident, and
• Live within a one-hour drive of the Denver metro area

• Foster parents come from all walks of life. In addition to the requirements above, foster parents are generally patient, kind, and have a passion for improving the lives of children and youth. When you attend our Foster Care 101 Webinar, you'll learn more about what it takes, including the benefits and the challenges of being a foster parent.

We are always in need of individuals and families for certain types of specialized foster care. In most instances, these foster parents have specialized training to support children with high needs. You can be the person who provides them with a stable home where they are cared for, healed from past trauma, and supported along their journey. Learn more about specialized foster care.

No. As long as you can offer a safe and stable living environment, whether rented or owned, you can be a foster parent.

No. Foster parents should have a desire to help children or youth but do not typically need prior experience, unless the child or youth has special needs.

No. Foster parents can be single or in a relationship.

No. Some foster children require a flexible schedule depending upon their needs, but many will attend school or daycare so foster parents can still work.

Yes. All families have a voice in the placement they receive. Denver Human Services works with you to find the right fit.