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Foster Care

Our foster care program is rooted in the principle that every child deserves to feel safe, to be nurtured, and to thrive. Our foster families and staff are committed to maximizing each child's potential within stable and loving foster homes.

Interested in becoming a foster parent? Complete the foster care inquiry form and one of our Homefinders will reach out to you.

Caregiver and child smiling at each other outdoors.
At a Glance
Matching children and teens with safe, caring homes ready to support and nurture their needs.

Age

Birth - 21

Gender

All

Referrals

MA DCF
Foster Hope. Foster Care.

At JRI's Foster Care Program, we're committed to respecting and nurturing the unique gifts, talents, and interests of each child while meeting their physical and emotional needs. Children enter foster care due to various family stressors such as neglect, domestic violence, abuse, or untreated mental illness. They often arrive feeling scared, sad, and confused. Our qualified team of foster parents and staff helps them feel safe and understood, supporting them through grief and guiding them toward healing and hope.

Check out JRI's Foster Care Blog


Foster Care Fast Facts graphic with girl smiling ▶
Learn more about foster care eligibility requirements in this Foster Care Fast Facts video.

Connections That Matter

When children and teens come to us, we carefully match their needs with foster families who have knowledge, training, experience, and a willingness to learn more to provide meaningful support. In these safe and stable homes, healthy connections form. Children overcome hardships, regain confidence, and learn valuable life skills. Together, we help children believe in themselves and their futures again.

Preparing for Foster Care

Fostering is a significant life decision that affects your entire household. While rewarding, it brings real challenges. We encourage you to discuss what fostering will mean with those closest to you before taking this important step.

Our Team

No team members found.

Being a foster mother is my calling. I was fostered when I was young; I knew that I wanted to help others. I am able to give back the love that was given to me.

Sheila
Foster parent for 10 years
Frequently Asked Questions
  1. Initial Inquiry: Fill out our foster care inquiry form or call (508) 821-7774
  2. Eligibility Screening: Speak with a Home Finder about basic requirements
  3. Application: Complete the foster care application and background check forms online
  4. Home Inspection: A Homefinder will ensure your home meets all safety standards
  5. Documentation: Submit all necessary paperwork (available online)
  6. MAPP Training: Complete this 30-hour course providing foundational knowledge of foster care
  7. Home Study: A Homefinder will interview all household members
  8. Licensing: Once approved, you become a licensed foster parent!

Some of the primary qualifications to foster with JRI are:

  • Be a MA resident
  • Are 21 years or over (no maximum age)
  • US Citizen or Permanent Resident
  • Have a spare bedroom for the child (not shared)
  • All household members have safe background checks and child welfare checks
  • No more than 3 children under 18 currently in home
  • Have an income that meets your financial needs (foster care does not provide income)
  • Have access to transportation to take children to appointments
  • Have a schedule that accommodates a child's schedule
  • Pets are safe, no history of aggression, and dogs are registered with town/up to date on rabies vaccination
  • All household members are medically stable -All household members agree to foster

When you become a foster parent at JRI, you will receive:

  • 24/7 personalized on-call support
  • Specialized training in trauma-informed care (MAPP and ARC Reflections)
  • Monthly ongoing training and support groups
  • Generous monthly stipend and $500 sign-on bonus
  • Weekly home visits
  • Expert consultation with mental health and educational professionals
  • Family events, holiday gift drives, and school supply assistance
  • 5 paid vacation days and access to respite care
  • $700 referral bonus

Interested in becoming a foster parent? Complete the inquiry form.

Referral Information

Referrals for foster care placements come from the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

Let's Connect

Robert Costa

Program Director

(508) 821-7774

[email protected]

99 South Main Street, Suite 301 Fall River, MA 02721

Request More Information
Request More 
Information
Opening your home to a foster child is a beautiful and life-changing choice. It brings joy, growth, and connection—not just for you, but for those around you. While the journey can come with challenges, talking with loved ones helps you prepare and embrace it with strength and support.

Request More Information

For assistance determining which programs or services will meet your individualized need, please fill out the form below. Our Service Navigator will reach out to you about your inquiry via phone, text, or email. If you have a question regarding a particular program, please contact the Program Director listed in the “Let’s Connect” box above. 

Please note that this form is not HIPAA compliant.  We urge you not to include protected health information.

What is your preferred method of communication?


Request More Information
Request More 
Information
Opening your home to a foster child is a beautiful and life-changing choice. It brings joy, growth, and connection—not just for you, but for those around you. While the journey can come with challenges, talking with loved ones helps you prepare and embrace it with strength and support.

Request More Information

For assistance determining which programs or services will meet your individualized need, please fill out the form below. Our Service Navigator will reach out to you about your inquiry via phone, text, or email. If you have a question regarding a particular program, please contact the Program Director listed in the “Let’s Connect” box above. 

Please note that this form is not HIPAA compliant.  We urge you not to include protected health information.

What is your preferred method of communication?


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Joint Commission International Quality Approval gold seal.
JRI's intensive residential treatment programs, clinics, and community-based services are accredited by the Joint Commission. JRI's residential schools, group homes, day habilitation and Huntington at Symphony are accredited by CARF.
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