The Refugee Foster Care program at Catholic Community Services resettles unaccompanied refugee minors and places them with loving foster families in Utah.
Fostering is an incredibly rewarding experience that can change the lives of both the foster parents, and the children they care for. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the foster care system that can discourage potential foster parents from getting involved.
Myth #1—I Don't Fit the Mold
False! Refugee foster parents can be single, married, divorced, or widowed. Some families wonder if they are too old to foster, but empty nesters, or older adults, can be the most successful foster parents. Others think they must be a parent to foster. However, refugee foster parents go through training to learn parenting strategies and best practices. You do not need to have children, or have parented before, to be a foster parent.
Myth #2—I Can't Have Pets
Many foster parents have pets. You just need to provide proof of current vaccinations for all animals. While some youth may not feel comfortable with pets, others find pets a source of comfort.
Myth #3—I Have to Own My Home
Foster parents can own or rent their home. The home must have adequate bedroom space for the youth, and they must have their own bed.
Myth #4—Teenagers Are the Most Difficult to Foster
Every child is unique and has their own set of challenges, regardless of age. While fostering teens may come with challenges, it is not necessarily more difficult than fostering younger children.
All youth need a stable and supportive environment to thrive, and with the right resources and support, fostering teens can be a positive experience. Teens also can participate in school, extracurricular activities, hold part-time jobs, and make plans for the future, which is incredibly rewarding.
Myth #5—I Can't Afford to be a Foster Parent
Foster parents are reimbursed for the care of youth in refugee foster care. The stipend is intended to help cover the cost of providing care to youth in refugee foster care.
Myth #6—I'm Waiting for the Perfect Time to Foster
There are times when a person should wait to foster – when dealing with a family crisis, during financial struggles, or when moving to a new home. However, there will never be a perfect time. There will always be challenges and obstacles to overcome, but the rewards of fostering can be life changing.
You’re not in your fostering journey alone either. The CCS Refugee Foster Care staff members will work to support you and your family to make fostering a successful experience. Don’t let the idea of the “right” or “perfect” time to foster hold you back from making a positive impact in a refugee youth’s life.
As you consider welcoming a new child into your home, we know you have questions— and we're prepared to answer them. Refugee Foster Parent Information Meetings are held via Zoom on the first Wednesday of every month at 6:30 pm.
For more information on becoming a foster parent or to RSVP for an Information Meeting please email us at or fill out an inquiry form.