Legal Definitions - foster

The term "foster" refers to the act of providing parental care and support to a child who is not one's biological offspring or legally adopted child. This care is typically arranged through a government or social services agency when a child cannot safely remain with their birth parents. It can also describe the relationship or the individuals involved in such a care arrangement.

• Example 1: After a natural disaster left many children displaced, a local couple, the Davises, decided to foster two siblings, providing them with a safe home, meals, and emotional support while their community rebuilt.

  Explanation: This illustrates "foster" as a verb, describing the Davises' action of giving parental-like care to children who are not their own, in a time of need and likely under an official arrangement.

• Example 2: Maria, a dedicated social worker, frequently visits children in foster care to ensure their well-being and to facilitate communication between them and their biological families, aiming for eventual reunification when possible.

  Explanation: Here, "foster care" uses "foster" as an adjective to describe a system or type of care where children live with temporary caregivers who are not their biological or legally adoptive parents, often overseen by a state agency.

• Example 3: At a community event, a panel discussion featured several inspiring individuals who shared their experiences growing up as foster youth, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of their journeys toward independence.

  Explanation: In this context, "foster youth" uses "foster" as an adjective to describe young people who have received parental care from non-biological or non-legally adoptive caregivers, typically within a structured system designed to protect children.