We are thrilled you are eager to begin the ministry of foster care. It is a joy to know you desire to affect so many vulnerable children and their birth families with the Gospel. We are honored you have chosen Lifeline to help you reach this goal of fostering.
When we enter into a relationship with you, we are here to support, pray over, encourage, and equip you during each phase of your journey.
As God has called you to this ministry, we want to be your full-service, ongoing partner to enable you to fulfill His calling of family restoration.
Timeline for South Carolina Foster Care Licensure
1.Pre-Apply
Click here to complete the pre-application. If you are ready to learn more about the process of becoming a foster parent in the Lowcountry, please complete our foster care pre-application online and a member of our Lowcountry foster care team will reach out to you with next steps.
2.Attend an Info Meeting
Join an information meeting about foster care, family restoration & wrap around care.
3.Start Your Home Study
Your home study will begin with a Welcome Call and Orientation Interview before starting with your paperwork, in home consultations, and inspections.
4.Attend Training
Our two-day pre-service training is scheduled at least quarterly throughout the year. At any time in your process, you can register with us to attend this training. We utilize the state required training and infuse it with Gospel principles and discipleship to shepherd you on this journey.
Classes are 8:30am- 5:30pm. Both classes are required to attend.
Training Dates:
March 2nd & 9th
July 27th & August 3rd
October 5th & 12th
February 1st & 8th 2025
5.License Approval
Lifeline submits your portfolio to the state for licensure, then maintains your license and collaborates with DSS on child placement.
6.Wait for Placement
After you are approved from the state, the next step is to wait until you are placed with a child who needs your care and love of Christ.
Monthly Informational Meeting Schedule
South Carolina Foster Care & Family Restoration Info Meetings
There are more than 4,200 children in the foster care system in South Carolina, and only 2,600 licensed foster families. Lifeline provides foster care licensing services to families in Charleston,