One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Can I afford to be a foster parent?”
This is a very real and honest concern – and the good news is: you don’t have to do it alone.
When you open your home to a child in foster care, you are not expected to carry the financial burden by yourself. Foster parents receive support – including monthly payments, healthcare coverage for the child, and other resources – to help meet the child’s needs.
In this blog, we’ll break down what kinds of financial help foster parents can receive and how it makes fostering possible for many different types of families.
Understanding Foster Care Reimbursement
Foster parents receive a monthly reimbursement, also called a per diem, to help cover the costs of caring for the child. This money helps pay for things like:
- Food and groceries
- Clothing
- School supplies
- Personal care items
- Basic household needs
The amount you receive depends on the child’s age and level of need. For example, foster parents who care for children in Therapeutic Foster Care often receive a higher per diem because the care requires more structure and support.
Other Financial Supports You May Receive
In addition to the monthly per diem, foster parents may also receive:
🏥 Medical and Dental Coverage
Children in foster care are usually covered by Medicaid, which pays for doctor visits, mental health care, medications, and more – so foster parents are not responsible for these medical costs.
🎼Activity and Essentials Support
Some of our programs provide extra help with:
- Artistic and Cultural Expression
- Precious Cargo
- Extracurricular activities (sports, music lessons, camps)
🎁 Holiday and Seasonal Support
Foster care agencies often help during the holidays and back-to-school season by offering:
- Holiday gifts
- School backpacks and supplies
- Special donation drives
You Don’t Have to Be Wealthy to Foster
You do not need to be rich to be a foster parent.
You just need to have:
- A safe and stable home
- Enough room for an additional child
- The ability to meet your own basic needs
- A heart ready to love and support a child in need
Many foster parents work full-time, rent their homes, and come from all different income levels.
Common Worry: “What if I can’t afford unexpected costs?”
This is a valid concern, and it’s one reason why ongoing caseworker support and community programs are in place. Many organizations, like SCYAP, also receive donations to help cover special needs like:
- Emergency clothing
- Medical equipment
- Therapy tools or sensory items
Foster care is meant to be a partnership – and you are never expected to do it alone.
Final Thoughts: Support Makes Fostering Possible
Fostering a child is a big commitment – emotionally, physically, and yes, financially. But thanks to federal and state-funded programs and community support, foster parents are given the tools they need to succeed.
If you’re considering fostering but are worried about the cost, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about what financial support is available in your area.
You don’t have to be perfect.
You don’t have to be wealthy.
You just have to be willing.
Interested in becoming a foster parent in South Carolina?
Contact SCYAP today to learn how we support you every step of the way.