Become a Foster Parent. Change a Life Forever.

Hoyleton offers expert guidance, training, and a full support team to help you open your home—and your heart.

HOW WE HELP

Why Foster with Hoyleton

From practical skills to trauma-informed care, Hoyleton provides foster families with education, resources, peer groups, and emergency support to navigate every step of the journey.

Hands-on Training and Education

Learn practical skills through in-depth training to help you feel prepared and confident from day one.

Financial Support

Receive monthly stipends and assistance to help cover the cost of a child’s care and daily needs.

Behavioral health resources

Access licensed therapists and counselors to support your foster child’s emotional and mental well-being.

Expert guidance

Tap into our team’s deep knowledge of trauma, attachment, and growth milestones to better support your child.

check-ins & peer groups

Stay connected with regular visits and join peer groups for shared experiences, advice, and encouragement.

Emergency support hotline

Get immediate help anytime with our 24/7 hotline—because questions and concerns don’t stick to office hours.

Guided Toward Independence

Foster parent Amy Petrillo shares how she opens her home to children with special needs, partnering closely with Hoyleton staff and birth families. With strong support systems, ongoing advocacy, and trauma-informed care, Amy helps youth build resilience and lasting stability.

become a foster parent

The Road to Becoming a Foster Parent Begins Here

Get the details, support, and inspiration you need to take the next step.

Eligibility Requirements

See what it takes to become a foster parent in Illinois.

See If You're Eligible

Licensing Process

Step-by-step guidance and support to help you get licensed.

Understand the Steps

Support & Training

You’ll never be alone. We provide tools, workshops and 24/7 support.

EXPLORE SUPPORT

Success Stories

Success
Stories

Hear from real foster parents about the lives they’ve helped change.

Get Inspired

“I think it is good that we get to have more people in our family. It’s like a puzzle, everything is in it’s perfect spot. I am lucky to have a family that loves me and cares for me, makes me feel grateful to have a family.”

- Payton, child adopted out of foster care

Real Stories. Lasting Impact
He Turned His Life Around — and Now Helps Others
If you were part of Hoyleton in 2020 you may have met or heard a story or two about former client Fryday Nelson. This young man, and his son Zai’den, stole the hearts of many when they were special guests at our Hoyleton Honors banquet back in February of 2020.
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Real Stories. Lasting Impact
Facing Fear & Finding a Brighter Future in Foster Care
Lorinda Macon entered foster care at 8. Today she’s a confident mother of two and author, sharing lessons from her journey and faith. At Hoyleton, caring caseworkers gave her hope, tools for resiliency, and the belief she had a future.
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Real Stories. Lasting Impact
Struggle to Strength: Jared’s Story of Healing & Hope
More than 20 years ago, a young couple adopted a six-month-old boy from Korea. As he grew, developmental delays led to anger and aggression, bringing fear and heartache. Despite their love and commitment, his parents realized they needed help.
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