Open Your Heart and Home to Children in Need
Thousands of South Carolina children are looking for a home where they can truly belong. Foster care at Southeastern Children’s Home gives them that chance, and gives you the opportunity to change a life.
Why Foster Care Matters
Children enter the foster system with uncertainty and loss. Shortages of licensed families leave many with no temporary home. Through faith-centered care, Southeastern connects children with adults who provide guidance, encouragement, and love.
How You Can Help
We believe foster care means more than providing a bed. It provides belonging. We guide you with training, support, and community connections so you can focus on nurturing a child’s growth and confidence.
Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be emotionally and financially stable
- Be in good physical and mental health (physician’s statement required)
- Provide supportive character references
- Be willing to work with the child’s biological family
- Complete 30+ hours of pre-licensing training and 15 hours annually
- Agree to SECH’s statement of faith
Licensing Process
- Submit application
- Meet with licensing worker for next steps
- Attend foster parent training
- Complete the required paperwork
- Complete home study interview and 2 home visits
- Pass fire marshal inspection
- Receive placement opportunities after DSS approval
Ready to start?
What Sets SECH Foster Care Apart
Foster parents at Southeastern never go it alone. You gain:
- 24-hour on-call support
- Access to clothing and essentials through SECH and partner ministries
- Connection to a network of foster families for mentorship and respite
- Tutoring and recreational support for your foster child
- Celebrations for birthdays, holidays, and other milestones
Every foster parent becomes part of a community that uplifts children and models Christ-centered love.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?
The first step is to reach out to us. You can submit an inquiry to learn more or to begin the process. Our team will connect with you to discuss the next steps and answer any personal questions you have.
Can I foster if I am single?
Yes. Southeastern Children’s Home welcomes emotionally and financially stable single adults who feel called to foster. You do not need to be married; we value caring individuals who are able to provide a nurturing and supportive home.
Do I need to own my home to become a foster parent?
No. You can foster whether you rent or own your home. What matters most is that you provide a safe, stable, and welcoming environment for a child. Your residence will need to meet safety requirements, including passing a fire marshal inspection, as part of the licensing process.
What are the costs associated with becoming a foster parent?
There are minimal direct costs to becoming a foster parent with SECH. The home study and required training are provided by SECH at no cost to you. You may be responsible for small expenses connected to home safety, such as purchasing a fire extinguisher if needed.
How long does the licensing process usually take?
The timeframe can vary based on individual circumstances. SECH is committed to guiding you efficiently through each step, from your application and training to the home study and final approval by the Department of Social Services. Your licensing specialist will outline the process and timeline at the beginning.
What makes fostering with SECH different from other agencies?
Foster parents at SECH join a Christ-centered community dedicated to supporting both children and families. We offer 24-hour on-call support, access to essential resources, connections with other foster families for mentorship and respite, and guidance from experienced staff for appointments and daily needs. Our faith motivates us to ensure you feel valued, equipped, and part of a mission that uplifts every child and caregiver.
Be the Change in Someone’s Life
Every family and child deserves love and support. Connect with us today to explore how you can get help or help others to make an enduring difference.
By joining with our Christ-centered programs, you strengthen your own family and bring support to hurting children. Whether you choose to open your home, seek guidance through counseling, or connect with our foster care community, you become a beacon of hope and love.