Foster Care

Children in foster care are from all racial and socio-economic backgrounds who have been abused, neglected or are without an appropriate adult to care for them.

  • Children can enter DSS custody from birth, through the teen years, until they are 18 years old. 
  • Youth who were in the legal custody of NC Department of Social Services upon their 18th birthday may be eligible to voluntarily participate in the Voluntary Placement Agreement program. 

To Become a Foster Parent: 

  • New Hanover County residents who are interested in learning more about becoming a foster or adoptive family should contact the foster home licensing unit of New Hanover County Department of Social Services at 910-798-3566. 
  • If you live outside of New Hanover County, please contact your local Department of Social Services.

 Teens in Foster Care:

  •  Knowing you can make a positive difference in a young person's life by offering your guidance, love and support can be one of the most special things anyone can do.
Foster or Adopt a Child
  1. Who are the Children in DSS custody?
  2. Who are the Foster and Adoptive Resource Families in DSS?
  3. Does Social Services provide financial assistance to foster families?
  4. How do I become a foster parent?
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