When Blessed Michael J. McGivney founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882, his mission was clear—protect and support the most vulnerable, beginning with the widows and orphans of his parish. Today, our St. Louis Martin Council carries that same torch of charity forward by championing the needs of foster children in Loudoun County. We are committed to raising awareness about the urgent need for foster parents, increasing the number of foster parents approved to welcome these children, and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with foster families who open their hearts and homes. In doing so, we live out the very mission entrusted to us by our founder—faith in action for those who need it most.

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What is Foster Care?

Foster care is a protective service provided to children in the custody of the Department of Family Services. It provides temporary care for when a child, through no fault of their own, must be separated from his/her own parents or relatives due to issues in the home. Foster parents provide a safe, stable environment for these children in need. 

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Children in Foster Care

Loudoun County needs more approved foster parents by the end of the Calendar Year to address the current need. Children in foster care range in age from birth to 21 years old; most are 11 years old and older. These children come from diverse backgrounds and may have experienced abuse, neglect or lived in families in need of supportive services. The needs of a child in foster care can vary but all children in foster care have a need for safety, security, and well-being. 

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How can you help?

1. Become an approved Foster Parent / Family!  Loudoun County's Department of Family Services is hosting monthly virtual foster care information sessions. ​​​

• Tuesday, October 20, 2025, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

• Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

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Attendance is free, but registration is required. Click here to register and here for more information on foster care in Loudoun County, and how to make a difference right here in your county.

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2. Provide Support to Foster Children who are Aging Out: Our Council is looking to be part of the conversation and the solution to support foster children who age out of the system. We are looking for Brother Knights to become mentors to these foster kids who age out of the system at age 21. ​If interested in learning more, email our Grand Knight for more information on becoming an approved mentor to these kids. 

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There are also periodic opportunities to help foster kids who are aging out as they move into new places to live. We will post these opportunities here on this page as they become available.

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