Christian Foster Care in DeSoto County, Florida
Serving children and families in Arcadia, Nocatee, Fort Ogden, and surrounding rural communities.
The need for foster families in DeSoto County
Children in DeSoto County enter foster care because of abuse, neglect, or family crisis, often with little notice and limited local placement options. In a rural county like DeSoto, the number of licensed foster families is small, which can make it difficult for children to remain close to home.
When foster homes are not available locally, children may be placed far from their schools, extended family, and community connections. For children in rural areas, distance can add another layer of disruption during an already painful transition.
A Door of Hope partners with Christian families to help meet this need by providing safe, stable homes rooted in compassion, consistency, and care.
Cities and communities we serve in DeSoto County
A Door of Hope serves children and families throughout DeSoto County, including:
Arcadia
Nocatee
Fort Ogden
Limestone
Having foster families within DeSoto County increases the likelihood that children can remain close to familiar people, places, and routines.
Foster care needs unique to DeSoto County
Because DeSoto County has a smaller population and fewer licensed foster homes, each foster family plays a critical role in meeting the needs of children in care.
Some of the greatest needs in DeSoto County include foster families willing to:
Provide care close to a child’s home community
Support sibling placements
Offer stability in a rural setting
In DeSoto County, one family saying yes can significantly change a child’s experience in foster care.
How A Door of Hope supports foster families in DeSoto County
Foster families in DeSoto County receive consistent support from A Door of Hope, including:
Faith-based foster parent training and licensing
Ongoing advocacy and relational support
Trauma-informed education and resources
Practical help during placements and transitions
A supportive community of Christian foster families
Our team works closely with local child welfare partners, churches, and organizations like Bridge A Life to ensure foster families feel supported and equipped every step of the way.
How to get started as a foster parent in DeSoto County
Becoming a foster parent in DeSoto County begins with a simple first step.
Attend a one-hour online foster care info session
Begin the foster parent licensing process
Get matched with a child or sibling group in need
For churches in DeSoto County
Churches across DeSoto County play a vital role in caring for vulnerable children and supporting foster families. In a smaller, rural county, the Church’s presence and partnership can make a lasting difference for children in crisis.
If your church is located in DeSoto County, we would love to partner with you.
Frequently asked questions about foster care in DeSoto County
Do I have to live in DeSoto County to foster children here?
Foster parents are typically licensed in the county where they live, but may care for children from surrounding counties when appropriate.
Can single adults become foster parents?
Yes. Single adults who meet licensing requirements are welcome to apply.
Do foster parents choose the age of children they foster?
Families can indicate preferences regarding age ranges and placement types.
Is foster care temporary?
Foster care is usually temporary, with reunification as the primary goal whenever possible.
Serving 11 Florida Counties
A Door of Hope licenses, trains, and supports Christian foster families across 11 counties in Florida:
View All Counties We Serve