Virginia’s Foster Parent Shortage
This October, StepStone Family & Youth Services is calling attention to Virgina’s urgent need for more foster families. As the nation recognizes National Foster Youth Voice Month, more than 4,900 children across Virgina are waiting for the safety and stability of a home that only dedicated foster parents can provide.
National Foster Youth Voice Month shines a spotlight on the experiences, perspectives, and resilience of young people in foster care. It also serves as a reminder of the critical role foster families play in helping children and teens navigate some of the most formative years of their lives. For youth ages 12 and 18, a consistent support system and trusted adult mentor can have a lasting impact on their long-term well-being and future success.
Since 1979, StepStone has been serving the state of Virginia and today, operates nine locations in Bridgeport, Dunbar, Christiansburg, Lynchburg, Princeton, Richmond, Virginia Beach, and two in Roanoke.
“Every child deserves a safe environment where they feel supported and empowered to reach their full potential,” said George Gehring, Jr., Virgina’s Executive Director of StepStone Family & Youth Services. “This month reminds us to listen to and learn from the young people we serve, but also to respond to their needs by recruiting more foster families who are willing to open their hearts and homes.”
Despite the significant need, Virginia currently has only 4,506 licensed foster homes available statewide. The need is especially critical for foster families willing and prepared to support children and youth with complex medical conditions, developmental disabilities, and high-acuity behavioral needs.
The state has also seen a recent increase in the number of Spanish-speaking children and youth, underscoring the need to recruit more Spanish-speaking families.
As part of the national StepStone network, the organization equips Virgina’s caregivers with resources to create safe, nurturing environments where children and youth can heal and grow.
Nationally in 2025, the organization served 3,162 foster care clients, helped facilitate 219 family reunifications, supported 225 relative placements, and assisted with 197 adoptions.
StepStone achieved 100% completion rate for client safety and face-to-face home visits. Children placed in StepStone foster homes were 15% more likely to receive timely medical care than the state average, reinforcing their commitment to support every child served.
If you are considering becoming a foster parent, please visit www.stepstoneyouth.com.
