Open Your Heart, Open Your Home – Become a Specialized Foster Parent. A child in need is waiting for you. At YCS, we believe that every child deserves a loving, safe, and stable home—one where they can heal, grow, and thrive.
Through our Specialized Treatment Home Program, we recruit and support foster families who provide compassionate care for children ages 5 to 22 with special needs. These children may have experienced trauma, disrupted placements, or intellectual/developmental disabilities and require patience, understanding, and nurturing foster parents to guide them toward a brighter future.
Could your family be the safe haven a child desperately needs?
Why Become a YCS Foster Parent?
Being a Specialized Treatment Home Parent is a life-changing experience—for both the child and your family. YCS provides the resources, training, and support necessary to help foster families succeed.
What We Provide:
- Comprehensive Training – Learn the skills needed to support a child’s emotional, behavioral, and academic growth.
- Ongoing In-Home Support – Our team is always here to help.
- Monthly Stipend available) – Financial support to cover the child’s care.
- Medical Coverage & Clothing Allowance – Ensuring the child’s essential needs are met.
- Therapeutic Services – Access to licensed therapists, social workers, and psychiatric care.
- 24/7 Emergency Support – You’re never alone in this journey.
- Parent Advisory Council (PAC) Meetings – Monthly gatherings for training, peer support, and expert guidance.
- Respite Care – Temporary relief when needed to recharge and regroup.
The Heart It Takes to Foster or The Qualities of a Life-Changing Foster Parent
A YCS foster parent is patient, compassionate, and dedicated to helping children heal from trauma and hardship. Foster parents come from all walks of life but share the same heart—a heart ready to offer a child safety, love, and the chance for a better future.
About Our Children
- Ages 5-22 with emotional, behavioral, or developmental challenges.
- Many have experienced trauma or multiple placements and need stability.
- Some have recently been discharged from psychiatric hospitals or require structured therapeutic support.
As a YCS Specialized Treatment Home Parent, you will be a vital part of the child’s healing and future success.
What Happens After Placement?
Once a child joins your home, YCS provides continuous care and support for both you and the child:
- Individual & Family Therapy – Licensed therapists work with the child and family.
- Medication Management – Supervised by YCS psychiatrists or advanced practice nurses (APNs).
- Mentor & Family Support Worker – Additional Support throughout the placement journey.
- Transition Planning – Working towards reunification, adoption, or long-term care.
The ultimate goal is reunification with the child’s family whenever possible. However, in some cases, independent living or transition into a therapeutic group home may be the best path forward.
Could You Be the Family a Child Needs?
The need for foster families is urgent. If you can provide a loving, stable home for a child with special needs, you may qualify to become a YCS Treatment Home Parent.
North & Central Jersey: Call 1-888-322-KIDS (5437) | Email ARaymond@ycs.org
South Jersey: Call 1-877-48-CHILD (24453) | Email ARaymond@YCS.org
Your home can be a turning point in a child’s life. Will you open your heart today?
