Do You Want to Become a Foster Parent in West Virginia?

If you’re considering becoming a foster parent in West Virginia, you’re already taking a meaningful first step. Foster parents provide safety, stability, and care for children during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. And the good news is support is available every step of the way. 

Mission West Virginia helps prospective foster parents understand the process, connect with local agencies, and move through certification with confidence. Whether you’re ready to start now or just gathering information, their resources make getting started clear and manageable. 

Here is your step-by-step guide on how you can become a foster parent in West Virginia.  

Step 1: Contact Mission West Virginia 

The best place to start is Mission WV.  

When you call, email, or submit an information request through 👉 https://www.missionwv.org/request-information you’ll receive free resources to help you move forward, including: 

  • A Foster Care & Adoption Information Guide 

  • A list of licensed child-placing agencies that serve your county 

  • A link to an online resource page explaining the certification process step by step 

Mission West Virginia staff are also available by phone or email to answer questions and help you decide what your next step should be. 

Step 2: Review the Foster Care Information Guide 

The Information Guide is designed to answer the most common questions about becoming a foster parent in West Virginia. It covers: 

  • General requirements for foster parents 

  • An overview of the foster care certification process 

  • Training requirements 

  • The homestudy process 

  • What to expect from start to finish 

  • Suggested questions to ask foster care agencies 

Taking time to read through this guide will help you feel informed and prepared before contacting agencies. 

Step 3: Research and Contact Foster Care Agencies in Your County 

Using the agency list provided by Mission West Virginia, contact several licensed child-placing agencies that serve your county. 

The Information Guide includes suggested questions to help you compare agencies, such as: 

  • How is foster parent training scheduled? 

  • What support is available after certification? 

  • Do you specialize in certain types of placements? 

  • What does ongoing support look like for foster families? 

After speaking with a few agencies, you can choose the one that best fits your family’s needs. That agency will help you complete an application and register for required training. 

Step 4: Begin Foster Parent Training and Certification 

Once you select an agency, they will guide you through: 

  • Required foster parent training 

  • The homestudy process 

  • Background checks and paperwork 

  • Final certification steps 

Throughout this process, Mission West Virginia continues to check in and provide support, ensuring you don’t feel alone or overwhelmed. 

Get Started Today 

Becoming a foster parent in West Virginia doesn’t have to feel confusing or intimidating. With the right information and guidance, the process is clear and supportive. If you’re thinking about fostering, Mission West Virginia is ready to help you take the next step. 

📌 Start here: https://www.missionwv.org/ 
📞 Call us at 304-562-0723 
📬 Request your free Foster Care & Adoption Information Guide 

🏠 Visit the Mission West Virginia office: 
168 Midland Trail, Suite 1 
Hurricane, WV 25526 

Jason Hager