I Never Thought a Single Guy Could Foster — I Was Wrong

I'm a single guy in my 30s. No kids of my own. When I first mentioned foster care to friends, the reaction was always the same: "Can you even do that?"

Yes. You can.

I won't pretend the process was simple. There were background checks, training hours, a home study where someone literally looked in my closets. But the agency never once made me feel like being single was a problem. If anything, they were grateful. There's a huge need for foster parents, especially for teen boys — and a single male role model is exactly what some of these kids need.

My first placement was a 14-year-old named DeShawn (not his real name). He'd been in four homes in two years. He was angry, guarded, and convinced I'd give up on him like everyone else.

I didn't.

It wasn't easy. There were nights I questioned everything. But I had my agency caseworker, a support group of other foster parents, and eventually, a bond with a kid who just needed someone to not leave.

DeShawn went back to his grandmother after six months. We still keep in touch. He calls me on my birthday, which means more than I can say.

If you're single and thinking about this — don't let anyone tell you it's not for you. These kids need stability, consistency, and someone who shows up. You don't need a spouse for that.