Becoming a Foster Parent
At REAL PEOPLE Foster and Family Services, REAL is more than an acronym — it’s how we live our values. The most important credential you’ll ever carry here isn’t a title or background — it’s being a Real Person.
We surround ourselves with people who show up fully, honestly, and with care. And the word REAL reflects the qualities we look for in every foster parent.
What It Means To Be a REAL Foster Parent
REAL Foster Parents Are:
R — Committed to building healthy RELATIONSHIPS. Because trust, connection and belonging are at the heart of healing.
E — Willing to EMPOWER others and themselves. We believe in strengthening children, families, and caregivers — together.
A — ALL IN — especially when it’s hard. We value presence, consistency, and staying engaged through challenges.
L — Open to LIFELONG LEARNING and growing together. We stay curious and reflective — knowing that growth never stops.
How This Shows Up
These values guide how we show up for families, children, and each other every day. Whether you're a caregiver, a child in care, or part of our community, you’ll be met with respect, empathy, and support that feels real.
If this sounds like you, you may already be a Real Person.
You don’t need to be perfect — just real and present.
Why Foster With Us?
Small & Personal
We are intentionally small because relationships matter.
Therapeutic & Trauma-Informed
We work from a place of understanding, not judgment.
Matching with Intention
We prioritize thoughtful matching above all — alongside a consistent, supportive team.
Support You Can Count On
Our support is consistent, accessible, with a real open-door policy.
What You’ll Gain by Fostering
Fostering with purpose. When you foster with intention, that’s when things change for the children and youth in your care.
Fostering with us isn’t just about giving—it’s about growing.
You’ll gain:
A deeper sense of purpose
Real relationships and connections – fellowship
The emotional rewards of helping a child/youth heal
Personal transformation that lasts a lifetime
You will become a Real Person
Steps to Becoming a Foster Parent
We have homes in communities across the GTA, Ontario. All are SAFE home-studied and trained to meet the needs of children in care.
Your voice and preferences matter deeply to us.
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Call, email, text, or connect through our website. Let’s start with a conversation.
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Learn about Real People and the system we navigate. This is a time for sharing, connecting, and understanding — with no obligation.
Information sessions can be held in a group setting or in person in your home. We’re flexible when it comes to meeting and will work with you to find a time and format that feels comfortable.
When you attend, you’ll simply be asked to complete a brief info session questionnaire.
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We’ll guide you through required documentation and training while getting to know you — and allowing you to get to know us.
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This includes exploring your strengths, preferences, and readiness, including thoughtful matching considerations. This is all done by a SAFE Home Study Accessor and Supervisor.
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Using your preferences, we thoughtfully match and welcome a child into your home — with full support behind you.
Getting started is easier than you think:
Have questions?
We’re here to chat—just real people real helping people.