Foster programs are initiatives designed to provide temporary care for children or animals who cannot stay with their families or original homes. In the case of children, these programs aim to ensure their safety and well-being while working towards reunification with their families or finding permanent placements. For animals, foster programs help shelter pets find loving homes until they can be adopted. These programs often rely on volunteers who open their homes to provide care, support, and companionship. Foster parents receive training and resources to help them manage the needs of the children or animals in their care, contributing to a smoother transition into permanent homes.