Foster Care

Why Foster?

Every Child Deserves a Safe, Loving Home.

Burlington United Methodist Family Services has been a trusted foster care provider since 1985—offering safety, support, and hope to children in crisis. As one of our largest and most impactful programs, our Foster Care Ministry gives children from birth to age 18 (and up to 20 if still in school) a chance to grow and heal in nurturing, stable homes.

We serve children of all races, religions, and backgrounds—many of whom have experienced abuse, neglect, or other challenges that prevent them from remaining with their biological families.

“A child just wants a home, love, and care… When you see those needs get met, you will see them blossom.”

— Tammy Michael, Foster Parent since 1987

Get Started

Interested in Becoming a Foster Parent?

Fill out a quick Foster Parent Inquiry Form, and a Home Evaluator will reach out to you soon. West Virginia residents only, please.

Start the Inquiry Form ➝

Or contact: Melissa Hauck at (304) 260-5884 | mchauck@bumfs.org

How it works

What Foster Care Through Burlington Looks Like

Our program provides:

Safe, immediate placement in a qualified family home
24/7 access to support and emergency services
Ongoing case management from dedicated social workers
Coordination with biological families when appropriate
Individualized treatment plans to meet the child’s emotional and developmental needs

Support for Foster Families

We walk beside our foster parents every step of the way. Burlington provides:

Personalized orientation and training
Monthly financial assistance to help offset costs
Dedicated treatment coordinator support
Respite care options when needed
Ongoing education and community support

Foster Care Program Locations

Foster Parent Requirements

To qualify, prospective foster parents must:

Be 21+ years old with good physical and emotional health
Have a stable home environment and family relationships
Pass criminal background and child abuse clearances
Complete a home study and training requirements
Be willing to work with a child’s birth family, when needed
Maintain a drug- and violence-free home with a bed for each foster child
Be financially stable without relying on state assistance (CHIP accepted)
Have reliable transportation with insurance

Every Family Has a Story

Real Stories. Real Impact.

Meet Ray and Tammy Michael, who began fostering with Burlington in 1987 and have adopted multiple children through the program. “We saw lives change—and ours did too.”

Help Us Grow Our Mission

We’re always looking for compassionate people to open their homes and hearts. Whether you’re ready to foster, want to learn more, or just want to support our mission, there’s a place for you here.

Become a Foster Parent ➝

Donate ➝