Christian Foster Care in Manatee County, Florida
Serving children and families in Bradenton, Palmetto, Lakewood Ranch, Ellenton, Parrish, and surrounding communities.
The need for foster families in Manatee County
Children in Manatee County enter foster care because of abuse, neglect, or family crisis, often with little notice. Many experience sudden transitions that remove them from familiar schools, neighborhoods, and trusted relationships.
Manatee County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the region. As new families move into the area, the need for licensed foster homes continues to grow as well. When foster families are not available locally, children may be placed farther from their home communities, increasing disruption during an already difficult time.
A Door of Hope partners with Christian families to help provide safe, stable homes rooted in compassion, consistency, and care.
Cities and communities we serve in Manatee County
A Door of Hope serves children and families throughout Manatee County, including:
• Bradenton
• Palmetto
• Lakewood Ranch
• Ellenton
• Parrish
• Anna Maria
Having foster families located throughout Manatee County helps children remain closer to their schools, extended family, and community support systems.
Foster care needs unique to Manatee County
Because Manatee County includes both rapidly growing suburban areas and more established communities, children in foster care face challenges related to placement availability and proximity to home.
Some of the greatest needs in Manatee County include foster families willing to:
Care for sibling groups
Support school stability during placement
Provide local homes as the county continues to grow
Local foster families play a critical role in ensuring children can remain connected to familiar environments during times of transition.
How A Door of Hope supports foster families in Manatee County
Foster families in Manatee County receive ongoing 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 connected community of Christian foster families
Our team works closely with local child welfare partners, churches and organizations like Bridge A Life to support families and prioritize the well-being of children.
How to get started as a foster parent in Manatee County
Becoming a foster parent in Manatee 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 Manatee County
Churches across Manatee County play a vital role in supporting foster families and caring for vulnerable children. As the county grows, local churches have a unique opportunity to respond by encouraging families to step forward and surrounding them with support.
If your church is located in Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Palmetto, or anywhere in Manatee County, we would love to partner with you.
Frequently asked questions about foster care in Manatee County
Do I have to live in Manatee 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