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Foster care placement

Every child deserves a nurturing, safe and stable home. DCF will help you become a foster parent and support you throughout the placement process.

When DCF contacts you about a child, you will receive information to help you decide whether the placement is right for you and your family., DCF will consider your family's strengths, experience and preferences, as well as the child's personality, background, and emotional and physical needs. 

Choosing to welcome a child into your heart and home is always your decision.  Ask questions and take the time you need to make an informed decision.

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The Placement Process

Step 1: DCF will contact you

A foster care worker will call you when a child may be a good match for your home. During the call, you can ask questions about:

  • The child's age and needs
  • Family visitation plans
  • School and transportation needs
  • Medical or behavioral supports
  • Any other information that will help you make a decision

Step 2: Meet the child

When time allows, DCF may arrange a visit before the child moves into your home. This gives everyone an opportunity to meet and begin building a connection. (In emergency situations, a pre-placement visit may not be possible.)

Step 3: Decide on placement

After learning about the child and speaking with DCF, you can decide whether the placement is a good fit for your family.  There is no obligation to accept a placement.

Step 4: Sign the placement agreement

If you decide to welcome the child into your home, you will review and sign a placement agreement.  The agreement includes:

  • Information about the child and their history
  • Legal and custody information
  • Medical, educational, and support needs
  • Family visitation plans
  • Roles and responsibilities of foster parents and DCF
  • Information about foster care reimbursement and available services

Step 5: Receive ongoing support

If you decide to welcome the child into your home, you will review and sign a placement agreement.  The agreement includes:

  • Information about the child and their history
  • Legal and custody information
  • Medical, educational, and support needs
  • Family visitation plans
  • Roles and responsibilities of foster parents and DCF
  • Information about foster care reimbursement and available services
  • Connect you with training and resources

Need more information?

Once you are ready for training, you'll be given access to FosterMA Connect - a secure online community with guidelines, information, resources and supports for foster parents.  You can learn more about:

  • Training opportunities and events
  • Important meetings
  • Discounts, benefits and resources
  • What you need to know about your foster child's school
  • Medical care
  • Babysitters, respite care and playdates/sleepovers
  • Cell phone/computer use and social media posting
  • Other important information and guidance

Once you have a child placed in your home, you'll also be able to see:

  • Medical, educational and other important information about your foster child
  • Contact information for your child's DCF team
  • Dates and locations of upcoming meetings
  • Payment information

DCF is here to support you throughout your foster care journey.

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