Community guidelines

No first names, no initials, no photos, no identifying details — not in a post, a message, a profile, or a rating. Describe the need (“dinner for six”), not the child. Foster children's privacy is protected by law and by the trust their families have placed in this community.

Your tier is self-reported. Choosing Tier 2 or 3 says you've cleared a background check or hold a respite approval. Families will verify that with their caseworker. Misreporting doesn't get you past that check — it wastes a family's time and ends your account.

Before accepting Tier 2 or Tier 3 help, check with your caseworker that the helper is approved for that kind of care. The app will ask you to confirm you did. Tier 1 help (porch drop-offs, yard work, errands) is between you and your neighbor.

Nobody pays to post, claim, or “hold” a need. If a helper asks for a deposit or a fee before helping, report them. Paid arrangements like respite are settled directly between the two parties after a match — Foster Circle never touches it.

A confirmed match means a family is counting on you. If plans change, withdraw in the app as early as you can so the need reopens. Families: mark needs completed or cancelled so volunteers aren't left guessing.

Phone numbers and addresses are revealed only after a confirmed match. Don't post them in need descriptions or messages, and don't share another member's information with anyone.

A post that names a child, a helper who seems off, anyone asking for money — tell a coordinator. If a child is in danger, call 911 or the Tennessee Child Abuse Hotline at 877-237-0004 first.