Opening Hearts and Homes: North Dakota’s Foster Family Shortage

Last week, I saw a report from KFYR that pointed out the need for more foster families in North Dakota, and it left me feeling a bit sad.

My mom and dad opened our home to foster kids some years ago, and to this day, we talk about how good of an experience it was. As an only child, it was great to have an older sister, and a brother close to my age to learn from. It was great for the foster kids as well, because they could grow, heal, and learn in a better environment. Looking back, there were not many foster homes back then, and it looks like that remains true today.

Get our free mobile app

North Dakota Faces Critical Foster Home Shortage Amid Rising Demand

North Dakota is grappling with a shortage of foster homes, a challenge highlighted in a recent report from The Imprint Youth and Family News. As of 2023, the state had 974 licensed foster homes. Despite this number, the demand for foster care remains high, with between 1,000 and 2,000 children in foster care annually.

Nexus-PATH's Nya Miller Highlights Urgent Need for Foster Families and Specialized Training

Nya Miller, a dedicated social worker with Nexus-PATH Family Healing, underscores the critical need for more foster families. "The biggest challenge in our field is finding families and the right homes," Miller explained. Nexus-PATH is committed to addressing this issue by providing thorough training to potential foster parents. This training focuses on trauma-informed care and positive conflict resolution methods, ensuring that foster parents are well-equipped to handle the unique challenges that may arise.

40 Children Waiting: Nexus-PATH Calls for Compassionate Foster Families in North Dakota

Currently, Nexus-PATH has 40 children on their waiting list, a stark reminder of the urgent need for more foster homes. Miller emphasized that there isn't an "ideal" foster parent but rather a need for individuals who meet the necessary requirements and are willing to open their hearts and homes to children in need. "Anybody that fits those requirements and has a place in their hearts, in their home to take on a kid that needs that love and support—we’re willing to sit down and talk with you," she said.

The licensing process with Nexus-PATH ranges from two to four months, during which potential foster parents receive the training and support needed to provide a stable and nurturing environment for foster children.

The ongoing need for foster homes in North Dakota is a call to action for those who can provide the love and stability that these children desperately need.