Make sure you meet the requirements
Before applying, review DCF's standard eligibility requirements. These requirements help ensure children are placed in safe and supportive homes.
Talk with a DCF Team Member
Contact DCF to learn more about foster parenting. A team member will contact you within 5 business days to answer your questions and help you decide whether fostering is right for you. You will also be invited to attend an information session online or in person.
Complete your application
If you decide to move forward after participating in a DCF information session, you will receive a foster care application. DCF will ask for information about your household, background, and experience caring for children. You'll also be asked to consent to required background checks. We are happy to help you fill it out.
Complete a home safety review
DCF will visit your home to make sure it meets basic health and safety standards. This visit is not about having a perfect home. It's an opportunity to make sure children will have a safe place to live.
Participate in training and assessment
You'll work with a DCF social worker throughout the licensing process. This includes:
- Home visits
- Interviews with and background checks of household members
- Virtual/In-Person foster parent training
The training helps prepare you to:
- Meet children's emotional, educational, and developmental needs
- Support children who have experienced trauma
- Work in partnership with DCF and birth families
Become a licensed foster parent
Once all requirements have been completed and approved, you'll become a licensed foster parent. Congratulations, you are ready to foster!
Support children in your care
DCF will work to match your family with a child whose needs and strengths fit your home, and provide you with ongoing support. We will:
- Assign a foster care worker to support you
- Visit regularly to check on you and your child's well-being
- Provide guidance and resources
- Conduct annual reviews
- Provide information about your rights, responsibilities, and the process for raising concerns or requesting assistance.