Foster Parents Needed for Tennessee Children with I/DD
May 5, 2026
TENNESSEE - Children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD) across Tennessee are waiting, not just for placement, but for a place to belong.
“Children with I/DD are a blessing, full of joy, strength, compassion, and love. They deserve more than uncertainty,” said Meagan Henry, Director of Communications for Evergreen Life Services. “What they need most is a stable, loving home where they can truly belong."
Children with I/DD in foster care often face longer wait times for placement due to unique medical, emotional, or behavioral needs. Many have entered custody through the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services through no fault of their own.
Evergreen Life Services provides a strong support system for foster parents, ensuring they are never alone in their journey.
Family Model Home providers receive:
• 24/7 on-call support from experienced professionals
• A dedicated program coordinator for each child
• Ongoing training focused on caring for children with I/DD
• Bi-weekly compensation to assist with foster care needs
Our Family Model Home program is designed to make sure you’re ready, supported, and never alone,” Meagan Henry added. “When you open your home, we show up with you, providing the guidance, support, and expertise needed to make a lasting difference.”
Who Can Become a Foster Parent?
Evergreen Life Services welcomes individuals and families from all backgrounds, including single adults, couples, parents, and empty nesters.
Prospective foster parents must meet the following basic requirements:
• Be at least 25 years old
• Be financially stable
• Complete Tennessee KEY (Knowledge Empowers You) training
• Complete Evergreen’s I/DD-specific foster care training
• Pass a home study, background check, and physical exam
• Be a Tennessee resident
• Provide a home with a private bedroom
• Complete daily documentation
Foster care creates meaningful, lifelong change for both the child and the caregiver.
Children gain a safe, stable environment, while foster parents often discover a deep sense of purpose and connection.
Evergreen Life Services is calling on compassionate individuals and families to step forward and become foster parents through its Family Model Home provider program.
Through this specialized foster care program, Evergreen Life Services supports children who need more than shelter; they need stability, patience, and a nurturing environment where they can grow and thrive.
