Foster care (family court)

If a family court judge grants custody of a child to DCF, our Family Services Division (FSD) is responsible for placing the child in a licensed foster home. If you would like to pursue this option, tell the DCF Family Services worker. If the court agrees, you will need to apply for a foster care license. Getting a license does not guarantee the child will be placed with you.

The licensing process includes:

• Completing the application package.

• Authorizing background checks on all household members aged 16 and older (e.g., criminal records and child protection registry checks).

• Having a worker visit your home to make sure it meets the licensing requirements and assessing your suitability as foster parents.

• Completing the required training.

There is support available to help foster parents care for the children placed with them. See LINK HERE for more information.

Digging Deeper:

Guide for Foster & Kinship Foster Families in VT

Licensing Regulations for Foster Homes in VT