How to Become a Foster Parent in Utah: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

If you have ever felt called to open your home to a child in need, you may be wondering how to become a foster parent in Utah. The process can feel overwhelming at first, but with the right guidance and support, becoming a licensed foster parent is both achievable and deeply rewarding.

At Open Arms Youth and Adult Services in South Salt Lake, we walk families step‑by‑step through the journey of becoming a proctor parent in Utah. With the right preparation, heart, and commitment, you can provide a safe place for a child to land during a difficult time.

My name is Kaelissa Hansen, and I have been a professional proctor parent for over 17 years and have worked in the field for more than 20 years. I have seen firsthand the difference stable, compassionate homes can make in the lives of children across Utah. This guide will help you understand what it takes and how to get started.

What Is a Foster (Proctor) Parent in Utah?

In Utah, many foster parents are referred to as proctor parents. A proctor parent provides care for children who cannot safely remain in their biological home due to abuse, neglect, or other unsafe circumstances. These children need stability, patience, structure, and understanding.

Foster care in Utah is designed to provide temporary care while families work toward reunification or another permanent plan. As a foster parent, you are part of a professional team that supports the child’s well‑being, education, medical needs, and emotional health.

Step 1: Make Sure You Meet the Basic Requirements

To become a foster parent in Utah, you must:

• Be at least 21 years old

• Have stable housing

• Pass background checks

• Complete required training

• Demonstrate emotional stability and ability to care for children

You do not have to be married, own a home, or have parenting experience. Many successful foster parents in Utah come from a variety of backgrounds. What matters most is your willingness to provide consistency and care.

Step 2: Choose a Licensed Foster Care Agency

In Utah, foster parents work with licensed child‑placing agencies. Choosing an agency that offers strong support and consistent communication is extremely important.

At Open Arms Youth and Adult Services, located in South Salt Lake, we provide personalized guidance throughout the licensing process. Smaller agencies often offer more hands‑on support, quicker communication, and closer relationships with families.

When choosing an agency in Utah, ask:

• How much training and support do you provide?

• What does 24/7 support look like?

• How often will I receive contact from my case manager?

• What type of placements do you specialize in?

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Step 3: Complete Pre‑Service Training

Training is a required part of becoming licensed in Utah. These trainings prepare you to understand trauma, behavior management, child development, and how the foster care system works.

At our South Salt Lake office, we offer ongoing foster care training and MANDT certification to ensure families feel prepared and confident. Training is not just about policies—it’s about learning how to show up for a child who may be experiencing fear, uncertainty, or loss.

Quality training makes a significant difference in placement stability and long‑term success.

Step 4: Home Study and Licensing Process

The licensing process in Utah includes:

• A home safety inspection

• Background screenings

• Interviews

• Financial review

• Personal references

The home study is not about having a perfect house. It is about ensuring a safe, stable environment. Social workers want to see that your home can provide structure, consistency, and adequate space.

This stage may take several months, but agencies in Utah will guide you through each requirement step by step.

Step 5: Placement and Ongoing Support

Once licensed, you will receive placement calls. You can always ask questions before accepting a placement. It is important to understand the child’s needs and determine if your home is a good fit.

Support does not stop once a child is placed in your home. In Utah, proctor parents receive ongoing case management, training opportunities, and access to resources. At Open Arms Youth and Adult Services in South Salt Lake, we emphasize continued education and strong communication to help families feel supported.

What Challenges Should You Expect?

Foster care is meaningful work—but it is not easy.

Children entering care in Utah often come from traumatic situations. You may experience behavioral challenges, emotional outbursts, or school struggles. Patience, structure, and consistency are critical.

However, with proper training and agency support, many foster parents find that the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Watching a child begin to feel safe, succeed in school, or smile freely again is incredibly powerful.

Why Utah Needs Foster Parents

There is an ongoing need for safe, stable foster homes across Utah. Many sibling groups, teens, and children with higher behavioral needs are waiting for placement. Communities such as South Salt Lake and surrounding areas in Salt Lake County continue to see a demand for committed foster families.

When you become a foster parent in Utah, you are not just helping one child—you are strengthening families and communities.

Is Foster Care Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Can I provide patience during difficult moments?

• Am I willing to work as part of a professional team?

• Can I commit to structure and consistency?

• Do I have space in my home and heart?

You do not have to be perfect. You simply have to be willing.

After over 20 years in this field, I can confidently say that foster parenting changes lives—including your own. The children we serve are resilient, capable, and deserving of stability.

Ready to Get Started?

If you are interested in becoming a proctor parent, the first step is simple. Reach out and complete our pre‑qualification survey or attend one of our ongoing trainings at our South Salt Lake location.

Open Arms Youth and Adult Services is committed to helping families in Utah feel confident, supported, and prepared every step of the way.

Every child deserves a safe place to land.

If you are ready to make a difference in Utah, we are ready to walk alongside you.

Kaelissa Hansen