Foster Care Resources

Adopting a child is one of the most meaningful commitments a person or family can make — and in Maryland, there are several clear pathways to make that commitment a reality. Whether you are a foster parent who has grown to love a child in your care, a relative stepping up for a family member, or someone new to the process who simply wants to open your home and heart, this guide walks you through everything you need to know: how adoption works in Maryland, the types of adoption available, the steps from home study to finalization, financial supports, and how to get started today.

Becoming a foster parent in Anne Arundel County offers several benefits, both for the children you care for and for foster parents themselves. While the process requires commitment, it can be deeply rewarding. Here are some of the key benefits:

For both children and parents, an adoption is a life-changing event. Some couples choose to adopt because they are unable to have biological children; others pursue the option because they want to expand their family and offer a child a home. For children growing up in the often erratic world of foster care or in an orphanage, becoming part of a permanent family is a radically new experience that leads to a more stable life.