Become a foster parent in Utah
A teen doesn’t need a perfect parent. They need a steady one.
If you can offer safety, patience, and a place to belong, you may already have what matters most. We’ll help you explore whether fostering is right for your household.
A first conversation is simply a conversation, not a commitment.
Meaningful, not easyYoung people need calm adults who can stay present through hard moments.
Supported, not aloneTraining and a treatment team help you respond with confidence.
Real, not perfectA safe, consistent home matters more than having every answer.
Could this be you?
Start with the basics. Grow into the rest.
You do not need to fit one picture of a foster parent. Single and married adults can qualify, and every family brings different strengths.
Basic requirements
- At least 21 years old
- A safe, stable home and reliable source of income
- All adults in the home able to pass required background checks
- Health and capacity to meet a young person’s day-to-day needs
- Willingness to learn, collaborate, and be part of a treatment team
Eligibility is confirmed through the full application and licensing process. Unsure about one item? Ask us. Do not count yourself out.
Your path forward
One clear step at a time.
We make room for questions before paperwork and help you understand what each stage asks of your family.
- 01
Let’s talk
Tell us what drew you to fostering and learn about current needs.
- 02
Apply and prepare
Complete the application, home requirements, screening, and preservice training.
- 03
Consider the match
Ask questions and decide whether a potential placement feels right for your household.
- 04
Welcome and support
Open your home with guidance from the team as trust and routines begin to grow.
A story from 4 The Youth
Change grows through patience, trust, and people who keep showing up.
McKenzie’s story offers a closer look at the relationships behind the work and what steady support can mean in a young person’s life.
The video plays here on the 4 The Youth website.
Support can include
- Guidance through licensing and training
- Thoughtful conversations about potential matches
- Coordination with therapists, mentors, and the treatment team
- Practical support when questions or challenges arise
You are part of a team
Care works better when caregivers feel cared for.
Fostering asks a lot of the heart. Our role is to help you prepare honestly, understand the young person behind the paperwork, and find support as your family adjusts.
Read common questions“It was about us being able to say, ‘We could be that family.’”
Brandy, 4 The Youth foster parent
Questions are welcome
What families often ask first.
Details can vary by program and placement. We’ll confirm what applies to your family during a conversation.
Do I need to be married?
No. Both married and single adults may be considered. Every adult in the home must complete the required screening process.
What ages does 4 The Youth serve?
4TY primarily supports children and teens, with many placements involving teenagers. Our team can explain current program and placement needs.
Can I decide whether a placement is right for us?
Yes. The matching process is a conversation. Available information is shared so you can ask questions and consider fit before making a decision.
How long does a young person stay?
It varies with the young person’s goals and situation. A stay may be a few months or several years, with reunification, another permanent home, or transition to adulthood as possible goals.
Is financial reimbursement available?
Foster parents generally receive reimbursement connected to a young person’s care. Amounts, eligible expenses, and tax treatment should be confirmed with 4TY and your own tax adviser.
What support will I receive?
4TY helps families understand training and licensing, consider potential matches, and connect with the treatment team and ongoing support when challenges arise.
Start with a conversation
Start by asking questions.
Share a little about yourself and the team will help you understand the next step. Prefer to talk now? Call 801-785-8870.
Submitting this form does not commit you to fostering. Your information is used to respond to your inquiry.