We Need More Foster Families in Stark County

  • September 2nd, 2025
  • By Pathway Caring for Children

Right now, across Stark County, there are children who need a safe place to land.

They might be toddlers whose parents are struggling with addiction. Teens who’ve bounced from home to home. Sibling groups who just want to stay together. Behind every placement call is a real child—with real fears, real hopes, and a deep need for stability and care.

And here’s the truth: There simply aren’t enough foster homes available.

At Pathway Caring for Children, we are urgently seeking more foster families in Stark County. If you’ve ever felt a tug on your heart to help—now is the time.

The Stark County Foster Care Shortage: What’s Happening?

Each month, child welfare agencies in our community are forced to make heartbreaking decisions—not because a child’s needs are too great, but because there’s limited available foster homes to take them in.

When that happens, children may be:

  • Placed far from their schools, friends, and siblings
  • Moved to group care settings that aren’t ideal
  • Separated from brothers and sisters
  • Left waiting in limbo while agencies search for placement

The shortage isn’t just a statistic—it’s a reality for children who feel scared, unwanted, or alone. We can change that—but only with more open hearts and open homes.

Who Can Be a Foster Parent in Stark County?

You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be present.

Our foster families come in all shapes and sizes: married, single, retired, working professionals, parents with grown kids, and people who’ve never parented before.

You can be a foster parent if you:

  • Complete background checks and training through Pathway
  • Are at least 21 years old
  • Can provide a safe and stable home
  • Have the time, patience, and compassion to care for a child

We provide extensive support every step of the way—you are never alone in this journey.

Why Choose to Foster Through Pathway?

We understand that fostering is a big decision. That’s why our team is committed to walking with you from your first call through every placement and challenge.

When you foster through Pathway, you receive:

  • Expert training to prepare you for trauma-informed care
  • Ongoing support from experienced caseworkers
  • Access to therapy and mental health services for children in your care
  • Financial reimbursement to help cover the cost of care
  • A team who treats you like family

We don’t just want you to foster—we want you to thrive while you do it.

There’s a Child Waiting for You

Maybe you’ve thought about fostering before. Maybe you’ve been waiting for the right moment. This is it. The need in Stark County is real, and you can be part of the solution.

Whether you’re ready to take the next step or just want to learn more, we’re here to answer your questions—with honesty, empathy, and no pressure.

Take the First Step Today

👉 Learn more about becoming a foster parent with Pathway »
👉 Sign up for an upcoming info session »
👉 Contact our foster care team with your questions »

You don’t have to change the whole world. Just one child’s.